Marcus Ericsson won this year’s Indianapolis 500 by holding off Pato O’Ward in the final two-lap shootout, and earned a hefty payout for his accomplishment.
In addition to a fancy ring and the keys to the special edition Corvette pace car, Ericsson took home $3.1 million for winning the famous race.
The sum is the largest ever given to the Indy 500 winner, and total payout is also the largest in the race’s 106-year history, eclipsing the $16 million mark for the first time.
The previous record for the largest purse was set at the 2008 Indy 500, when Scott Dixon won his first, and to date only, Indy 500.
“The Indianapolis 500 is the greatest race in the world, and these drivers lay it all on the line for a chance to drink the winner’s milk and kiss the famous Yard of Bricks,” Roger Penske said.
“This year’s record-setting purse is reflective of their tireless pursuit of history and the world-class talent they display on every lap.”
Pato O’Ward lost out on the top prize, but still took home $1 million in prize money for finishing in the second position.
Jimmie Johnson earned a bonus for winning the Indy 500 rookie of the year award, bumping up his total payout to over $207,000.
The average payout to each of the 33 drivers was $485,000, and it is hoped the payouts will rise even higher in the future as the series continues to grow in popularity.
You say the money goes to the driver, but surely the teams get some share to cover their investment in the driver?