INDIANAPOLIS — A longstanding tradition for Indianapolis 500 champions became reality for Marcus Ericsson.
After winning the race in May, Ericsson's face was unveiled on the Borg-Warner trophy on Thursday.
The bas-relief, sterling silver image of Ericsson is the 109th face to be affixed to the iconic trophy, awarded annually to the winner of the Indianapolis 500 since 1936.
Ericsson, a native of Kumla, Sweden, earned his first victory in “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” in the No. 8 Huski Chocolate Chip Ganassi Racing Honda and is the second Swede to win the race, behind Kenny Brack in 1999.
Renowned sculptor Will Behrends created Ericsson’s image, as he has for every winner since 1990.
“I’m truly honored to have my face sculpted onto the historic Borg-Warner Trophy as an Indianapolis 500 winner,” Ericsson said. “It was an incredible experience to work with Will Behrends and see his dedication and artistry firsthand. Will has done a marvelous job. Today is a very special day for me, as well as everyone at Chip Ganassi Racing. Joining all the previous winners on the trophy is something I'll always be very proud of and will never forget."
“Marcus is a great champion of the ‘500’ who truly understands and appreciates the many traditions of ‘The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,’ such as today’s memorable ceremony,” IMS President J. Douglas Boles said. “We are looking forward to continuing to celebrate his victory between now and when we see him on track next May for the 107th running of this iconic race.”
Originally designed in 1935, the sterling silver trophy measures over 5 feet, 4-3/4 inches tall and weighs more than 110 pounds as it carries the sculpted face of every victor since 1911. Following the unveiling in Indianapolis, the trophy will travel to Ericsson’s home country of Sweden to celebrate his victory on the racetrack.
Early next year, Ericsson will receive his BorgWarner Championships Driver’s Trophy, also known as the Baby Borg, a miniature replica of the large-scale Borg-Warner Trophy.
“The Borg-Warner Trophy represents much more than just a victory on the racetrack; it symbolizes the great tradition of the Indy 500 and honoring the driver for their triumph while paying homage to the champions of the past,” said Michelle Collins, global director, marketing and public relations for BorgWarner. “It is our honor to add Marcus’ image to the trophy and, together as a company, congratulate him on his countless hours of work and dedication to his craft.”
-
IPS anti-violence program seeks community funding
A program at Shortridge High School is providing a safe space for teens to hang out and connect after school. The SHINE project held its first tailgate of the season on Friday.
Mitchell scores 20, Howard 18 as Fever beat Sky 97-77 in playoff push
Kelsey Mitchell scored 20 points, Natasha Howard added 18 and the Indiana Fever moved closer to securing a playoff berth with a 97-77 win over the Chicago Sky on Friday night.
Small business director goes door-to-door to help local entrepreneurs succeed
In a neighborhood where longtime business owners have weathered decades of change, a new grassroots push is working to ensure small businesses and residents not only stay, but thrive.
Franklin Township councilors will vote Monday on Google Data Center hearing
On Monday night, the Indianapolis City-County Council will vote on whether to hold a final public hearing for a proposed Google Data Center in Franklin Township.
