IMS increasing event purse, investing millions in tech, infrastructure and fan experience
SPEEDWAY, Ind. (WISH) — Indianapolis Motor Speedway officials gathered at the track Friday afternoon to announce new improvements and investments coming to the Indianapolis 500.
The reveal was announced exactly 100 days from the big race.
The event purse will now be the largest in the event’s history with more than $15 million. Changes are also coming to qualifying weekend.
“I am very excited about the enhancements to qualifying weekend, the largest-ever ‘500’ purse, new sponsors and the significant investments we are making to the INDYCAR SERIES and to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway,” said Roger Penske.
According to officials, the Last Row Shootout will expand to 75 minutes and speeds will be boosted with an increase in horsepower by 45 HP.
Six new sponsors have also been added to “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” Those sponsors include: Pennzoil, Verizon, Snap-on Tools, DEX Imaging, “Road & Track” magazine and Global Medical Response.
Additionally, millions of dollars will be invested in fan experience. With those investments come technology upgrades, including large video boards, monitors and an IMS Media Wall, as well as improvements to infrastructure. Pedestrian lanes are being widened and more than 100 restrooms are being renovated. The fan experience investments will be completed before the gates open for the Month of May on May 8, track officials said.
You can see a more detailed plan here.