NFL legend Tom Brady and seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson are joining forces to make a highly anticipated entry into the 2025 Indianapolis 500, set for May.
NFL legend Tom Brady and seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson are joining forces to make a highly anticipated entry into the 2025 Indianapolis 500, set for May. The duo has partnered up to organize a new team entry, with former Toro Rosso F1 driver Sebastian Bourdais scheduled to take the wheel. This exciting development adds a new layer of intrigue to the upcoming 500-mile race.
Johnson’s Indy 500 experience
Jimmie Johnson made his debut at the Indy 500 in 2022, finishing 28th after a late-race crash. Despite the mishap, he secured the prestigious Rookie of the Year award.
Johnson is now preparing for his second Indy 500 and is collaborating with Brady on a fourth entry for Chip Ganassi Racing at the 2025 event. Their partnership is sure to elevate the already competitive field for one of motorsport’s most iconic races.
Bourdais makes a comeback
According to IndyCar reporter Tony Donohue on the Tony D Podcast, former Toro Rosso F1 driver Sebastian Bourdais is returning to North America’s premier open-wheel series after a three-year hiatus. The 45-year-old Frenchman, a four-time CART and Champ Car champion will once again compete at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, marking his 11th appearance at the famed race.
Bourdais, who enjoyed a successful career in the U.S. during the early 2000s, was brought into F1 by Red Bull’s Christian Horner and Helmut Marko in 2008.
However, his time in Formula 1 with Toro Rosso did not live up to expectations, as he struggled against younger teammate Sebastian Vettel. Despite his limited success in F1, Bourdais’ return to IndyCar has kept him in the limelight, though he hasn’t added to his championship tally since his early career.
A competitive field for the 2025 Indy 500
The 109th running of the Indianapolis 500 promises to feature a thrilling lineup of drivers. In addition to Bourdais, several veterans will be returning to the race, including Ryan Hunter-Reay, Helio Castroneves, and Ed Carpenter.
NASCAR star Kyle Larson will also be competing in his second Indy 500. Former F1 drivers Alexander Rossi and Marcus Ericsson are also set to participate, while McLaren’s Pato O’Ward is aiming for his first victory at the Brickyard after a near-miss in 2024.
With such a talented field, the 2025 Indianapolis 500 is shaping up to be an unforgettable race, and Brady and Johnson’s new partnership is sure to add even more excitement to the mix.
