More fear than harm. Frenchman Romain Grosjean retired on leaving the track shortly after halfway through the Indianapolis 500 on Sunday, an event he was competing for the first time. Grosjean, a former Formula 1 driver, hit the wall on the outside of a bend, destroying his car but causing no damage to him. He was then in 18th place after starting 9th on the grid, the best position for a “rookie” (beginner).
Grosjean, 36, made his IndyCar debut last year after contesting 179 F1 Grand Prix. However, he had decided not to participate initially in races on oval circuits, such as the Indianapolis 500 Miles, judging them too dangerous. He has since changed his mind and took part in the 106th edition of this famous race for the Meyer-Shank team on Sunday. American Conor Daly led the way shortly after halfway ahead of New Zealander Scott Dixon, who started from pole position. The other French driver entered, Simon Pagenaud, winner of the 500 Miles in 2019, was 10th.
