Celebrating Triumph: Alex Palou and Chip Ganassi Receive Baby Borg Trophies After Indy 500 Victory

On February 18, 2026, BorgWarner honored the incredible achievements of Alex Palou and Chip Ganassi with a special presentation at Phoenix Raceway, commemorating their triumph at the 2025 Indianapolis 500. The event, tied to the Unser IndyCar Open Test, was filled with excitement as both individuals received the coveted Baby Borg Trophies™. For Palou, this marked a significant milestone in his racing career, while it was Ganassi's seventh time receiving this accolade as a team owner.

Palou's Baby Borg, a 20-inch representation of the prestigious Borg-Warner Trophy®, features sculpted likenesses and crucial details such as his name, team affiliation, and average speed. During the ceremony, Palou shared his excitement: "I've been looking forward to this moment since May, waiting to finally bring my Baby Borg home. Being an Indy 500 winner has been incredible… it only fuels my drive to try and do it again." His sentiments reflected the elation and pressures that come with such prestigious achievements in motorsports.

The roots of this tradition date back to 1988 when the Baby Borg trophy was first created, followed by the establishment of the Championship Team Owner's Trophy™ a decade later. These trophies symbolize not only victory but also the spirit and passion that define the Indianapolis 500 as one of the most significant races in the world.

At the same event, team owner Chip Ganassi praised the honor of receiving his latest award, noting the sentimental value of the location. "It’s an honor to be here, and I want to thank BorgWarner and everyone at Phoenix Raceway for hosting. This place is special to me — it's where I drove an IndyCar for the very first time, bringing everything full circle," Ganassi said. With achievements in the Indianapolis 500 stretching back to 1989, Ganassi has solidified his perspective as one of the sport's most successful figures, making every victory equally important.

The day also celebrated the legacy of the Unser family, renowned figures in IndyCar history with multiple wins represented on the original Borg-Warner Trophy. Palou reflected on this legacy and the powerful emotions that are tied to being an IndyCar champion. He expressed gratitude to Ganassi, his team, and BorgWarner for their continuous support as he aims to transcend his past successes.

This season, Palou is set to defend his title, with the IndyCar Series opening on March 1st at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. He aims to make history by becoming one of only seven drivers ever to win back-to-back Indy 500 races. Palou's journey and drive for success exemplify his determination to maintain excellence in the sport.

BorgWarner has always been at the forefront of celebrating motorsport achievements and fostering innovation. Their commitment to excellence is reflected in their products and their traditions that uplift and recognize athletes in motorsport.

The celebration and recognition of these champions at the Baby Borg trophy presentation inspire not only fans and competitors but create a lasting legacy that continues beyond the race's finish line. The Indianapolis 500 remains a pinnacle in racing history, and with figures like Palou and Ganassi, its future shines even brighter.