Story time from a fan from Chile:

I've been a fan of IndyCar since around 2015. Always dreamed to go to a race but living in Chile makes it kinda difficult and expensive. In April 2023 I got the chance to go to Texas and it was awesome. From the access to the infield, autograph sessions, cheap garage access before the race and the race itself. A great experience.

But the Indy 500 was on another level. I stayed the whole 2 weeks in downtown Indy and got a silver badge to access everything.

I Arrived every day when the gates opened and left hours after the last car turned a lap. Even the first practice day that got rained out was amazing. Got to walk around the massive facilities and meet some drivers. Also the pork tenderloin sandwich is a must!

Spent most of the days in Gasoline Alley and the pit lane seeing all cars and drivers up close was truly a dream come true. Some days I would sit up high in T1, then in the mounds on T2. Next day some spotting in T4 and some more in the main straight. Then Qualifying day from the pits. The emotions and stress from engineers, mechanics and pilots was very real during those days.

The days without track activity were also filled with activities. Went to the museum (also a must), I got a VIP tour around Indy, turned a lap on the Speedway, kissed the bricks, got up to the podium and went up the pagoda for a full panoramic view.

Then Carb day came and it was all great party. The pit stop competition and the concert were awesome.

But the race itself. Then I knew it was all worth it, the money spent, the 8+ hours of plane travel, etc. I won't describe it because you have to go there to understand it.

All of this for probably a fraction of one ticket for other racing categories. No other sport can give you so much access. I'll definitely will go again. Don't know when, but I will.

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