The newest face on the iconic Borg-Warner Trophy was unveiled on Wednesday, showing off the additional profile of Josef Newgarden affixed to the base.
The 33-year-old took victory in May’s 108th running of the Indianapolis 500, securing his second consecutive win of the iconic race.
Newgarden streaked past then held off Pato O’Ward in the closing laps to cross the yard of bricks in the lead, and celebrated by climbing into the grandstands just as he had done the year before.
One of the many perks of winning the Indy 500 is that the driver’s likeness is sculpted, cast in sterling silver, and affixed to the famous Borg-Warner Trophy alongside all the previous winners.
Will Behrends is the master sculptor that was once again called upon to design the newest addition, with the 78-year-old adding his 35th face to the iconic, 110-pound trophy.
Newgarden’s face is now the 111th individual face to be enshrined for all to see, lengthening the legacy even further.
“There are more wrinkles, yes,” joked Newgarden when he saw the new addition alongside the sculpture of his first win. “I knew it!
“I like the hair a little better. Yeah, it does look better in 2024. Will had a good day! No, that’s really cool. I do love that the details are different.”
Going for a three-peat
Engraved alongside Newgarden’s face is his average speed for the entire 500 miles, with 167.763 MPH forever logged along with his victory.
Newgarden also spoke candidly about his opportunity to win a third consecutive Indy 500, which would be the first time the feat has been accomplished in the race’s long history.
“I like that we’ve already been planning stuff for next year. Potentially. We’re not shy that we have the opportunity to win it again next year. I know the probability is extremely low, but winning it twice is a very low probability.
“We do have a chance to do it. I’m not shy to talk about it because there is a chance to win it three years in a row. Talking about it is not going to change what we do. We’re there to win, and we know the process that we have to do.
“It’s an honor just to be in the race. I really recognized that two years ago, and now to win it [twice] has taken the appreciation to a new level. I don’t think you can understand the appreciation until you win it.”
Newgarden will look to defend his title on Sunday, May 25, potentially becoming the first driver to ever win three races in a row.
