Lando Norris Rules Out Future Indy 500 Participation D…read more
Fresh off his maiden Formula 1 victory at the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix, McLaren star Lando Norris has made a firm declaration about his racing future—one that does not include the famed Indianapolis 500. While the two iconic races took place on the same day, Norris made it clear that despite the allure of the Indy 500, it holds no personal appeal to him.
The Indianapolis 500, often dubbed “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” took place just hours after Norris stood atop the podium in Monte Carlo. The 109th edition of the American motorsport classic was won by Spanish driver Alex Palou, who edged out former F1 driver Marcus Ericsson to claim victory and further cement his status as one of IndyCar’s top talents. Also featured in the field was NASCAR legend Kyle Larson, showcasing the broad appeal and crossover opportunities that the Indy 500 presents. Historically, even Formula 1 World Champions such as Fernando Alonso and Jenson Button have taken part, testing their mettle on the high-speed oval. Yet, despite this illustrious company and the event’s grandeur, Norris is unshaken in his stance.
“It is something I will never do,” Norris said definitively when asked about the possibility of competing in the Indy 500. The Brit, who once shared a team with Robert Shwartzman in Formula Renault and congratulated him on winning pole position for the Indy 500, was candid in explaining his lack of interest in oval racing. “I can say it right now, I’m not doing it. Just have no interest in doing it. Not my thing.”
Norris went on to share that although he has tried the Indy 500 virtually using racing simulators and found some enjoyment in the experience, it did little to change his opinion. “Even though I’ve done it on the sim and it was quite fun, but I got taken out,” he added with a laugh. His comment hints at both the unpredictable nature of oval racing and his preference for more technical circuits, such as those found on the Formula 1 calendar.
The 24-year-old Brit did not shy away from expressing his admiration for the drivers who do compete in the event. “I have a lot of respect for these guys,” Norris continued. “There are a lot of incredibly talented drivers over there in America, and some of them could do very well in Formula 1.” His remarks underscore a mutual respect between F1 and IndyCar disciplines, even if he personally has no desire to cross over.
When pressed about the coveted ‘Triple Crown of Motorsport’—a rare feat that requires a driver to win the Monaco Grand Prix, the Indy 500, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans—Norris was equally dismissive. “Nope,” he said without hesitation, reiterating his disinterest in chasing the motorsport holy grail. To date, only one driver, Graham Hill, has achieved the Triple Crown, making it a legendary but elusive target in the racing world.
For Norris, the passion lies in the unique challenges that Formula 1 offers, particularly its blend of high-speed corners, technical layouts, and varied circuits across the globe. “I like turning right as well. So, that’s the main thing,” he joked, highlighting the left-turn-heavy layout of oval racing as another reason for his reluctance.
While fans may have hoped that Norris’ Monaco win might spark a desire to expand his legacy into other motorsport arenas, his stance appears resolute. The Indy 500, with all its glory and tradition, will likely remain a race he admires from afar—leaving the Triple Crown pursuit to others, while he focuses on building a championship-winning legacy within Formula 1.
