Alex Palou Achieves Historic Victory, Unveils His Image on The Borg-Warner Trophy

On November 19, 2025, the world of motorsport celebrated a historic moment as Alex Palou's image was added to the revered Borg-Warner Trophy. This iconic trophy honors all the champions of the prestigious Indianapolis 500, and Palou now stands as the 112th driver to receive this honor after clinching victory in the 2025 race. The unveiling ceremony took place at Commission Row in downtown Indianapolis, highlighting the significance of his achievement in front of a delighted audience.

Alex Palou's victory represents not just a personal triumph but also a groundbreaking achievement for Spain, as he becomes the first Spanish driver to win the Indy 500. Behind this success lies the formidable support of his team, Chip Ganassi Racing, marking team owner Chip Ganassi's seventh win as a principal, which positions him as holding the second most victories in IndyCar history.

The Borg-Warner Trophy, crafted from sterling silver, features Palou's likeness, a stunning addition to the craftsmanship of the trophy that pays homage to the heroes of racing. Michelle Collins, Global Director of Marketing and Public Relations at BorgWarner, expressed her excitement stating, "I’m honored to continue one of the greatest traditions in all of sports and unveil the latest addition to the iconic Borg-Warner Trophy. Alex’s victory exemplifies that tenacity and constant commitment to excellence will result in success on and off the track."

In his pursuit of this prestigious win, the four-time IndyCar Series Champion crossed the finish line ahead of competitors such as American David Malukas and Mexican Pato O'Ward, with over 240,000 fans in attendance cheering his success. Palou’s journey to this moment was marked by resilience and perseverance, previously finishing fifth, fourth, ninth, and second in his prior Indy 500 laps before finally seizing the title.

Creating the likeness for the trophy is no small task. Sculptor William Behrends, who has been the artist behind the faces of the trophy for over three decades, undertook the meticulous process of sculpting Palou's image. This involved detailed examinations of 360-degree photographs followed by sessions to refine the life-size clay model. The intricate transformation process included casting the clay model into sterling silver, a skillful endeavor that culminated in the polished trophy unveiled to the public.

As part of the celebrations, it’s noteworthy that Palou will also receive the Championship Driver’s Trophy™, a miniature version of the Borg-Warner Trophy, early next year, recognizing his remarkable performance throughout the season.

Beyond the immediate triumphs, this victory speaks volumes about the evolution of motorsports, showcasing diverse talents emerging from all corners of the globe, highlighting the growing international nature of the sport. Palou’s success not only brings pride to his nation but also inspires aspiring drivers everywhere.

In conclusion, Alex Palou’s victory in the 2025 Indianapolis 500 is a monumental achievement that deserves to be celebrated. As his image now graces the Borg-Warner Trophy, we are reminded that dedication, skill, and a supportive team can pave the way for extraordinary accomplishments in the world of sports.