Rookie Shwartzman Claims Historic Indy 500 Pole for PREMA Racing

Robert Shwartzman, a 25-year-old rookie and former Formula 1 reserve driver, made a stunning debut by winning the pole position for the 109th Indianapolis 500, becoming the first rookie to do so in 42 years. Despite having no prior oval racing experience, Shwartzman achieved a four-lap average speed of 232.79 mph, leading PREMA Racing, a new team in the IndyCar series, to a historic pole in its first attempt. Shwartzman's unexpected success was aided by PREMA's engineers and Chevy, and he expressed disbelief and gratitude for the achievement. He will start on the front row alongside two-time Indy 500 winner Takuma Sato and 2024 runner-up Pato O'Ward, with Scott Dixon and Alex Palou also among the top qualifiers. Shwartzman's background includes racing in Formula 3 and Formula 2, as well as experience as a Ferrari junior driver, but his path to IndyCar was marked by challenges, including geopolitical obstacles affecting his Formula 1 prospects. The pole position marks a significant milestone for both Shwartzman and PREMA Racing, signaling their intent to compete at the highest level in American open-wheel racing.