Helio Castroneves has had a likeness of his face added to the famous Borg-Warner Trophy for a fourth time following his historic Indianapolis 500 win last year.
The 46-year-old claimed a record-tying fourth Indy 500 win last may while driving for Meyer Shank Racing, giving the team its first IndyCar Series win on the biggest stage.
The win gave the veteran new life, and resulted in him being signed to a full time IndyCar season for the first time since 2017.
Castroneves’ newest likeness was unveiled at the Indiana State capitol building in a ceremony on Thursday morning, with the governor in attendance to help unveil the addition.
“The hairline is going backwards,” joked Castroneves after seeing his face on the trophy. “It’s fine. It’s still here, that’s the good thing.
“Thank you so much. I said many things, sometimes it just comes from my heart. It’s a true testament to how much I love this place. And how much the fans mean to me. This is just a perfect example.
“It’s me sitting here, but this is part of history. For me to be the one chosen to be part of this history means so much. It’s a true testimony that when you are passionate about something, you have to dive in and go for it.
“I’m so happy to be on this amazing trophy. It’s an amazing part of history. I’m looking forward this year to continuing. We reset the button from last year. It was great moment, but now it’s a new year. We want to continue going for it.
“I have an amazing team with Meyer Shank Racing, Jim and Mike, Liberty Group. Those are the people that gave me another opportunity to go out there and do what I love, and do what I know best.”
Castroneves made the traditional media rounds after his record-tying performance ten months ago, and received accolades from all around the world.
He also sat down with sculptor Will Behrends in December, who created a clay mold in the likeness of Castroneves’ face in order for it to be added to the base of the trophy.
The trophy itself was commissioned in 1936, and has been gaining historic additions in the form of race-winning faces ever since.
The likeable Brazilian will make an attempt to earn a fifth spot on the trophy this May, with the 106th Indianapolis 500 taking place on May 29.
