15 Wild Moments from Indy 500 History That Still Have Fans Talking
Racing fans know that the Indianapolis 500 is full of fast cars, brave drivers, and jaw-dropping moments. Over the years, this legendary event has seen crashes, comebacks, and some of the strangest happenings in motorsports. These unforgettable moments still spark debate, laughter, and awe among fans today.
- Tricia Quitales
- 4 min read
The Indy 500 has a long tradition of drama, danger, and triumph that keeps fans on the edge of their seats year after year. From surprising finishes to bizarre incidents, each race adds to the legacy of the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” In this article, we take a lap through 15 of the wildest moments that have left fans speechless or cheering. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a new spectator, these stories are too wild to forget.
1. The Closest Finish Ever (1992)
Karen Abeyasekere on Wikimedia
Al Unser Jr. and Scott Goodyear battled to the line in what became the closest finish in Indy 500 history. The winning margin was just 0.043 seconds, leaving fans stunned. It proved that every inch counts at the Brickyard.
2. J.R. Hildebrand Crashes on Final Turn (2011)
Airman 1st Class Daniel Hughes on Wikimedia
With victory in sight, rookie J.R. Hildebrand crashed into the wall on the final turn of the last lap. Dan Wheldon slipped past and won the race in a shocking twist. Fans couldn’t believe what they had just seen.
3. The Milk Celebration Tradition Begins (1936)
Agence de presse Meurisse. Agence photographique (commanditaire) on Wikimedia
After winning, Louis Meyer asked for buttermilk, starting a tradition that still lives on. Even though milk and racing may seem unrelated, it became a symbol of victory. Now it’s one of the most beloved Indy 500 customs.
4. The Infamous Jet Dryer Fire (2012)
Andrew-44-19 on Wikimedia
During a caution, Juan Pablo Montoya’s car collided with a jet dryer, causing a massive fireball on the track. The explosion melted part of the surface and delayed the race. It was a moment no one expected in the middle of a routine cleanup.
5. Janet Guthrie Breaks Barriers (1977)
Tim O’Brien on Wikimedia
Janet Guthrie became the first woman to qualify for the Indy 500. Facing heavy criticism, she proved she belonged among the best. Her courage paved the way for future female racers.
6. The Tragic Loss of Scott Brayton (1996)
Artem Makarov on Pexels
Scott Brayton won the pole position but tragically died in a crash during practice just days later. His car was still raced by a teammate in his honor. The event was a painful reminder of the sport’s risks.
7. The First 200-MPH Lap (1984)
Sofía Nuñez on Pexels
Tom Sneva became the first driver to officially break 200 mph at Indy. His record-setting lap shocked fans and raised questions about safety. It was a bold moment in racing history.
8. Buddy Lazier’s Victory with a Broken Back (1996)
Jonathan Borba on Pexels
Buddy Lazier won the Indy 500 just weeks after breaking his back in a crash. He raced in pain, but his determination inspired fans everywhere. His win became one of the most courageous in racing.
9. Emerson Fittipaldi Drinks Orange Juice Instead of Milk (1993)
Fotocolors ATTUALFOTO on Wikimedia
After winning, Fittipaldi skipped the traditional milk and promoted orange juice instead. Fans booed the odd choice, but it made headlines. The moment sparked a debate about Indy 500 traditions.
10. The Rain-Shortened 1976 Race
Jonathan Borba on Pexels
Heavy rain forced officials to stop the race early after just 102 laps. Johnny Rutherford was declared the winner, but many fans were disappointed. It was one of the few times the full 500 miles weren’t completed.
11. Roberto Guerrero’s Pole and Crash (1992)
Artyom Kulakov on Pexels
Guerrero earned the pole but crashed on the parade lap before the green flag even waved. The shocking start ended his race before it began. It’s one of the most heartbreaking moments in Indy history.
12. The 2014 3-Wide Finish Attempt
Adriaan Greyling on Pexels
With just laps to go, three drivers went side-by-side at blistering speeds in a battle for the win. The risky move thrilled fans and showed incredible skill. It was pure racing drama at its finest.
13. Helio Castroneves Climbs the Fence (2001)
Governor Eric Holcomb on Wikimedia
After his first Indy 500 win, Castroneves celebrated by climbing the fence. The crowd loved the move, and it became his trademark. Now, fans expect the fence climb whenever he wins.
14. A Rookie Wins It All: Alexander Rossi (2016)
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Bryan Blair on Wikimedia
Alexander Rossi stunned the field by winning the Indy 500 in his rookie year. He gambled on fuel strategy and coasted across the finish line. The unlikely win made him an instant star.
15. A Photo Finish in the Rain (2007 Indy Pro Series)
Samuel Phillips on Pexels
While not the main event, the 2007 Indy Pro Series race had a wild photo finish in the rain. The cars slid and fought their way to the checkered flag in unbelievable conditions. Fans still talk about the chaos of that wet and wild race.