Indy 500 Weather: A Tale of Two Races
The Indianapolis 500 is one of the most iconic races in the world, and the weather can play a major role in determining the outcome. Over the years, there have been some truly epic races that have been decided by the weather, and some that have been complete washouts.
One of the most famous examples of weather affecting the Indy 500 was in 1973. The race was delayed by rain for several hours, and when it finally got underway, the track was still wet. As a result, there were several crashes, including one that took the life of driver Swede Savage.
In 1995, the race was again delayed by rain, this time for over two hours. When it finally got underway, the track was still wet, and there were several more crashes. One of the crashes involved driver Scott Brayton, who was seriously injured.
In 2004, the race was delayed by rain for over three hours. When it finally got underway, the track was still wet, and there were several more crashes. One of the crashes involved driver Buddy Rice, who was the defending champion.
In 2007, the race was delayed by rain for over four hours. When it finally got underway, the track was still wet, and there were several more crashes. One of the crashes involved driver Danica Patrick, who was the first woman to lead the race.
In 2014, the race was delayed by rain for over two hours. When it finally got underway, the track was still wet, and there were several more crashes. One of the crashes involved driver Juan Pablo Montoya, who was the defending champion.
In 2017, the race was delayed by rain for over three hours. When it finally got underway, the track was still wet, and there were several more crashes. One of the crashes involved driver Helio Castroneves, who was the defending champion.
In 2022, the race was delayed by rain for over two hours. When it finally got underway, the track was still wet, and there were several more crashes. One of the crashes involved driver Simon Pagenaud, who was the defending champion.
The weather can play a major role in determining the outcome of the Indy 500. Over the years, there have been some truly epic races that have been decided by the weather, and some that have been complete washouts.