The Indianapolis 500 is not only one of the most iconic races in world motorsports… it also has one of the most unusual and beloved traditions among fans: The winner drinks milk on the podium.
Yes, you read that right. Instead of champagne like in Formula 1, the Indy 500 champion it is soaked in very cold milkWhere does this custom come from? And what does Alex Palou have to do with all this?
🏁 The origin: a champion's promise
The story begins in 1936, when the pilot Louis Meyer, winner of that edition, asked a glass of buttermilk after crossing the finish line. He'd done this since he was a child whenever he won something important, because his mother gave it to him as a symbol of energy and success.
A photo of the moment with Meyer drinking milk was so popular that from 1956 the Indiana Dairy Association turned the scene into an official tradition. Since then, the winner chooses the type of milk (whole, semi-skimmed, or skimmed) they want. before of the race.
🇬🇧 Alex Palou and the taste of victory
At 2025, Alex Palou, the Catalan driver who is already an IndyCar icon, won the Indianapolis 500 for the first timeHe did so after an impressive, strategic race and a perfect final shift.
Palou, who had already been achieving great results and titles in the category, He made history at the Indy 500 and joined the exclusive club of those who have lifted the Borg-Warner trophy… and drunk milk at the finish line..
His choice was clear: very cold whole milk“It’s a tradition, and I’ll take it with pride,” he declared with a laugh after the victory.
🏎️ More than a drink: a symbol of greatness
In an age where everything becomes a spectacle, drinking milk may seem strange… but in Indianapolis it is a badge of honor, respect for history and connection with the essence of sport.
Each bottle raised is a tribute to the greats of the past, such as Foyt, Unser, Mears… and now also Palou.
📦 Are you an IndyCar fan?
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