The Indy 500's Front Row: A Pricey Privilege The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is often referred to as the "Mecca of Speed," but for those competing in the Indy 500, the real holy grail is starting on the front row.
While drivers and teams focus on engine rivalry between Chevrolet and Honda, a more fundamental aspect of success at Indy has been quietly accumulating data: the value of a good starting position.
Historical analysis of recent Indy 500 results reveals that drivers who secure top positions on the grid have a measurable advantage in finishing position and prize money.