The Indianapolis 500 has featured several Cinderella stories throughout the years, especially when it comes to rookie performers. Rookies have the chance to show the entire world what they're capable of in this fabled race, just look at Alexander Rossi winning the Indy 500 on debut back in 2016. While we don't have many rookies this year, we do have 2 drivers that could make a name for themselves on Sunday.
Robert Shwartzman, Prema Racing
The former Formula 2 race winner made history last Sunday by being the first rookie pole sitter in over 40 years, driving for a team attempting their first ever Indy 500 as an organization. Shwartzman has a rocket of a car and he's looking to shock the entire world. He has an amazing opportunity on his hands as he leads the field across the yard of bricks.
Louis Foster, Rahal-Letterman Lanigan Racing
The defending Indy NXT champion has had a sluggish start to his rookie season, driving for a team that has been subpar for many years, but he's been making the most of his situation and he's got a chance to turn everything around in Indianapolis. He definitely has the talent to march his way towards the front despite qualifying deep in the field.
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Rookie Predictions
I think Shwartzman is legitimately a strong contender for Sunday, and I expect him to stay in the conversation for the win all race long. I have Shwartzman coming home in P8 on Sunday's event.
On the other hand, Louis is a wild card. The opportunity is there for him to make something happen, and he will definitely make himself noticed by the FOX broadcast. I have Foster bringing it home in 14th.
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What do you think of these standout rookies? Will they make noise in the big race or will they encounter rookie struggles?
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