“Rookie Robert Shwartzman, at 25 years old, surprised the IndyCar paddock by securing pole position for the prestigious Indianapolis 500, achieving an impressive four-lap average speed of 232.790mph in his No. 83 Prema Racing Chevrolet. This marks Shwartzman’s first oval race, as well as Prema Racing’s debut on an oval, transitioning from their well-established European racing roots to compete in IndyCar this season.
Shwartzman’s exceptional performance placed him alongside seasoned racers Takuma Sato and Pato O’Ward on the front row, making him the first Israeli-born driver to not only qualify for the Indy 500 but also clinch the pole position, a feat unmatched by any rookie since Teo Fabi in 1983.
However, rookie Jacob Abel of Dale Coyne Racing faced disappointment as he failed to qualify for the race, with teammate Rinus VeeKay making it through the last-chance qualifier. On the other hand, Kyle Larson, embarking on the challenging Indy 500/Coke 600 ‘Double,’ will start 21st in the lineup for the 500.
With the stage set, all eyes are now on the grid for the 2025 Indianapolis 500, where the excitement and anticipation are at an all-time high.”
