Josef Newgarden Aims for Historic Third Straight Indianapolis 500 Win and $20,000 Jackpot

Historic Opportunity for Josef Newgarden at the Indianapolis 500

Josef Newgarden is set to make history this year at the Indianapolis 500, as he aims to become the first driver to clinch three consecutive victories in this prestigious race. Following his recent win in 2024, which earned him a staggering $440,000, the BorgWarner rolling jackpot is reset at $20,000 for the upcoming event. This growing incentive has been designed to motivate drivers like Newgarden to achieve remarkable back-to-back victories in the famed race.

The Indianapolis 500 is not just any race; it is referred to as "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing" and has a long history of fierce competition. Newgarden's pursuit of a third title is particularly significant as no driver has ever pulled off such a feat in the long and storied history of the race. To add to the excitement, Newgarden's team owner, Roger Penske, is also on the verge of making further history. If Penske achieves this win, it will mark his 21st victory as a team owner in the Indy 500. He previously led his drivers, Helio Castroneves and Gil de Ferran, to consecutive wins in the early 2000s.

BorgWarner, known for its innovations in mobility solutions, has sponsored the rolling jackpot since 1995. The prize money has been awarded only twice in its history: first to Castroneves in 2002 and more recently to Newgarden himself over the past two years. This year, with the jackpot reset, it provides Newgarden with a chance to not only solidify his place in history but to also add to his impressive earnings.

"I'm honored to carry on the legacy of the Borg-Warner Trophy and the traditions that make the Indianapolis 500 unique and exciting, including the BorgWarner rolling jackpot," said Joseph Fadool, President and CEO of BorgWarner. Fadool expressed his enthusiasm for Newgarden's potential historic win, hinting at the excitement it brings to fans and competitors alike.

The race is set to commence on May 25, and if Newgarden is successful, not only will he create a legacy as the only driver to win three consecutive Indy 500 titles, but his likeness will also be immortalized in sterling silver on the Borg-Warner Trophy. Furthermore, he will receive a third miniature version of the trophy, affectionately known as the "Baby Borg."

However, a twist in the competition means if Newgarden does not secure the win, the jackpot will roll over to the next year’s Indy 500, reaching a total of $40,000. The stakes are high, with Newgarden's significant contributions already demonstrating his talent and skill behind the wheel.

As the drivers prepare for possibly one of the most competitive Indianapolis 500 in years, the spotlight remains firmly on Newgarden, who is not only competing for personal glory but also represents the dreams of countless motorsport enthusiasts.

With the backdrop of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway filled with adrenaline and excitement, fans eagerly await the moment when the green flag waves to kick off what promises to be an unforgettable race. The pressure is on Newgarden as he approaches this pivotal event, but with his proven track record, nothing seems beyond his reach. Will 2025 see Newgarden make history? Or will the legendary race keep its secrets a little longer? Only time will tell as the engines roar to life for the 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500.