The Borg-Warner Trophy

Lore & Background

Designed by sculptor Robert J. Hill, it features a winged victory figure atop a tall base, with space for a silver bas-relief portrait of each winning driver. The trophy's base has been expanded multiple times to accommodate new faces, a testament to the race's enduring legacy. The trophy is not just a prize but a symbol of the Indianapolis 500's unique culture. It is displayed year-round at the Speedway, and during the month of May, it is a focal point of ceremonies, from the winner's celebration to the annual Victory Dinner. Its presence connects modern champions to the heroes of the past, making it a living artifact of motorsport history.

In Their Own Story

The air was thick with the smell of ethanol and burnt rubber as the crowd roared. In Victory Lane, the winning driver climbed from the cockpit, sweat and grime streaking his face. The Borg-Warner Trophy gleamed under the Indiana sun, its silver surface reflecting the faces of every champion who had come before. As he lifted it, the weight of history settled on his shoulders—not just the heft of the silver, but the legacy of every driver whose face was etched into its base. For a moment, the noise faded, and he was alone with the trophy, a silent promise to the past and future. Then the champagne sprayed, and the legend grew by one more face.

Reader's Guide

For fans, the Borg-Warner Trophy isn't just a prize—it's a pilgrimage. Each May, visitors to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum can press their noses against the glass and trace the faces of legends like A.J. Foyt, Rick Mears, and Helio Castroneves. The tradition of adding a new face each year means that every fan can watch history being made, as the latest champion joins the pantheon. The trophy's unveiling at the Victory Dinner is a cherished ritual, where the driver's face is revealed for the first time. Fans often gather to see the new addition, debating which expression best captures the driver's personality—the grit, the grin, the thousand-yard stare of a 500-mile winner. The Borg-Warner Trophy also appears at the 500 Festival Parade, where it rides in a special car, a glittering beacon for the crowd. For supporters, the trophy represents the ultimate achievement in IndyCar. It's a symbol of endurance, speed, and the unbreakable bond between driver and machine. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a newcomer, seeing it in person is a reminder that the Indianapolis 500 isn't just a race—it's a religion, and this is its golden idol.

Did You Know?

• Each winning driver's face is sculpted in silver and added to the trophy's base.
• The original trophy remains at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, with winners receiving a smaller replica.