2011 Indianapolis 500 Results – Dan Wheldon Wins When Rookie Crashes

Rookie J.R. Hildebrand passed Dario Franchitti for second place. Then, when Bertrand Baguette had to pit for a splash of gas he inherited the lead. Franchitti faded as Hildebrand’s gas conservation earlier in the race allowed him to stay in the gas now at the end. Dan Wheldon would move up to second.

As Hildebrand came around the final turn with the checkered flag in sight he stayed in the gas a bit too much and crashed into the outside wall. Wheldon dodged some debris and claimed the lead. Hildebrand was so close to the finish line when he crashed that his banged up car with just three tires still crossed the line in second place.

Dan Wheldon wins the 2011 Indianapolis 500. Wheldon does not have a regular ride scheduled for the season. Perhaps winning at the Brickyard might lead to a regular ride.

Danica Patrick led some laps late in the race, but it was short-lived because she had to pit for fuel. That is actually when Bertrand took over the lead which led to the above events.