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The world of motorsport has different disciplines throughout its wide range of competitions. Among them, three stand out above the rest because they are included in the coveted 'Triple Crown'. F1 - with the Monaco GP - the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Indianapolis 500, have a special mention as the most prestigious events in the sport.
Being a Formula 1 champion is considered by many to be the most important success in motorsport. However, the 'Triple Crown' is a title that many have fought for over the years, as it can only be awarded to a driver who has achieved success in different racing disciplines
From Formula 1 to different categories
Likewise, this scenario is the main reason why many drivers have decided to try other categories, especially the 'Indy 500'. Although regular Formula 1 competitors did not usually race in the Indy 500 in the 1950s, today, as the 500 Miles is completely separate from the World Championship, it is much more common to see drivers in both scenarios.
Despite the fact that only four names have managed to win the F1 World Championship and sit on the top step of the podium at Indianapolis, 20 drivers have made the leap from the 'premier class' to the 500-mile race.
Fernando Alonso, the last to do it
Even Fernando Alonso was the last to leave Formula 1 to pursue his goal of triumphing on North American soil. The two-time world champion, twice winner of the Monaco GP, competed in the 'Indy 500' for the first time in 2017, a year in which he gave up his seat at McLaren to Jenson Button. Without success, the Spaniard tried again in 2019 after winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2018. However, his attempt for the 'Triple Crown' was left in the 'repechage'.
F1 drivers who have made the leap to the Indy 500
Alexander Rossi (2016-) and Takuma Sato (2010-) are the only drivers who are still active, year after year, in the Indianapolis 500. Like Alonso (2021-) in F1, the rest of the competitors have closed their careers in both scenarios.
- Alberto Ascari
- Jack Brabham
- Juan Manuel Fangio
- Giuseppe Farina
- Graham Hill
- Rodger Ward
- Jim Clark
- Denny Hulme
- Jochen Rindt
- Jackie Stewart
- Emerson Fittipaldi
- Eddie Cheever
- Nigel Mansell
- Nelson Piquet
- Bobby Rahal
- Jacques Villeneuve
- Juan Pablo Montoya
- Takuma Sato
- Alexander Rossi
- Fernando Alonso
However, from the aforementioned list, four drivers have achieved the greatest feats in both disciplines: to be F1 champion and win the Indianapolis 500.Jacques Villeneuve, Graham Hill, Emerson Fittipaldi and Jim Clark.