Indy 500 Protest Denied

Topics:  Indianapolis 500, Paul Tracy, Helio Castroneves

Voice of America
Indianapolis, Indiana
May 28, 2002

A protest of the results of the Indianapolis 500 has been denied. Helio Castroneves remains the winner of the 500. The Indy Racing League denied a protest from Team Green - whose driver, Paul Tracy - finished second.

Team Green contended that Tracy had passed Castroneves before a yellow caution light late in the race. But, racing league Vice President Brian Barnhart says there is clear evidence from the dashboard caution light system showing Tracy made an illegal pass - after the light was on.

"There was a variety of information, based on video as well as data, and driver testimony type of deal, but both sides presenting evidence as you always have any any kind of a protest," says Mr. Barnhart.

Mr. Castroneves - who was driving for Roger Penske - is the first driver in 31 years to win back-to-back Indy 500s - and the first to win his first two races at Indianapolis.