The Indianapolis 500 is a massive event.  It will draw a crowd of around 350, 000 people.  It will be the second biggest city in Indiana for the day.  The local TV blackout will be lifted for the first time in years.  This is a big deal for fans.

It's easy to focus on the top qualifiers.  But let's talk about the drivers who might surprise everyone.  These are the underdogs who could shake things up.

Take Kyle Larson, for example.  He's a NASCAR star driving for McLaren.  He's had a rough start with two crashes and a poor qualifying position.  But don't count him out.  He's shown impressive skill and car control.  He's happy with his race car and has the experience from last year to push harder.  This might be his last Indy 500 for a while, so it's a big moment for him.

Then there's Kyle Kirkwood.  He's starting from 23rd, but he's been the fastest in practice without a tow.  His team, Andretti, has been strong at Indy.  He had pit issues last year but still finished in the top 10.  If he gets his car to peak performance, he could be a contender.

Conor Daly is another one to watch.  He's a local favorite starting 11th.  He says his car this year is better than the one he led the most laps in back in 2021.  His team, Juncos Hollinger, has a history of upsets.  They knocked Fernando Alonso out of the 2019 Indy 500.  So, don't be surprised if Daly pulls off a giant-killing.

Santino Ferrucci has had a tough month.  But starting from 15th doesn't rule him out.  His car looked better in the final practice.  In six starts, his worst finish is 10th.  He could still be in the mix.

Josef Newgarden is a favorite to win.  He's starting from 32nd, but his car is fast.  He has a strong pit crew and good strategy.  Cars retire or crash, and he could take advantage.  He's an underdog because of his starting spot, but he could be up there around the top 10 by halfway.  No one has ever won from this far back.  Can he do it?

The Indy 500 is full of surprises.  These underdogs might just cause a shock.  It's not just about the top qualifiers.  It's about the drivers who can adapt and overcome.  So, keep an eye on these names.  They might just steal the show.

The Unlikely Stars of the Indy 500

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