It was an event fitting for the occasion. The unveiling of the most recent Indianapolis 500 winner’s face on the Borg Warner trophy each December has become akin to the coronation of a new ruler of England. The winner is known in May, then in December his likeness is officially placed on the trophy.

The reveal event has evolved over the years. The first one I attended was in 2016. It was a low key affair. Alexander Rossi spent some time with a group of fans before his face was shown on the Borg Warner trophy. Before Covid, these little affairs were held at the IMS Museum.

In 2022, Marcus Ericsson saw his image in sterling at a luncheon near downtown, followed by a nice buffet lunch. Last night, i think IMS may havefound a permanent home to honor its reigning champion.

The trophy stood in all its grandeur with a 1914 Stutz Bearcat in the background.

The Stutz Museum hosted the event. Attendees sat among classic Stutz automobiles, including a 1973 Stutz Black Hawk. 

I think some of the cars were removed to accommodate last night’s event.

Newgarden’s image is one of the better ones in recent years. His features stand out, and you can tell who it is. Too many of the recent winners’ faces seem to have sameness about them.

Newgarden is still overwhelmed by his victory. You can hear it in his voice as he speaks about last May. He hopes to attend this end of year event again as the honoree.

“As soon as you win the Indy 500, you want to win it again,” he said.

The Stutz Museum is open Saturday and Sunday from 10am-6pm, Thursday Friday form 4pm – 8 pm. Admission is free and is open to the public. It is a good idea to check before going in case it is closed for a private event.