Every year, the NTT IndyCar Series awards one Indianapolis 500 rookie the distinction of Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year.
After starting on pole and leading eight laps, Robert Shwartzman was awarded the honor for this year’s 109th running of the great event.
Even though Shwartzman did not finish the race and was scored in 26th position, the award is based on votes and is given to drivers that exhibit the most distinction across the entire event.
The official criteria for the award includes “on-track performance in practice, qualifying and the race, media and fan interaction, sportsmanship and positive influence on the Indy 500.”
Shwartzman was given a special trophy at Monday’s awards banquet and gave a short speech about his experience over the past two weeks.
“I think it was unbelievable,” said the 25-year-old. “I’m coming from Europe, so we don’t have ovals and we don’t drive the cars so fast. When I did my first lap, I was like ‘This is really fast. Where do I brake? Where is the braking point here?’ And there was none.
“Lap by lap I was progressing and getting a bit more comfortable with the car. Also getting some lines and variations trying to understand what is the fast one.
“With consistency, taking step by step without rushing things, we managed to achieve a very great moment taking pole position. It felt amazing, honestly.
“Obviously, in the race we had an issue. Luckily all the guys are safe. That’s the most important thing. I got very scared the moment I lost rear brakes, then I was a passenger.
“The experience here in Indy is amazing. It’s the craziest race I’ve had. Unfortunately, I didn’t manage to finish it. The overall two weeks working hard and getting used to the speed has been amazing. And also the fans.”
Shwartzman beat out fellow rookie racers Nolan Siegel, Louis Foster, and Jacob Abel, the latter of which failed to qualify for the race.
