PREMA Racing star Callum Ilott is gearing up for his first Indy 500, a momentous event in his racing career. The British driver recently sat down with NTT IndyCar’s media team during the Indy 500 open test, where he discussed his preparations alongside his former F2 teammate, Robert Shwartzman. With the race day approaching on Sunday, May 25, at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the excitement intensifies as the duo readies themselves for this prestigious spectacle in motorsport.
This year marks a significant debut for PREMA Racing as they enter the Indianapolis 500, having first raced at the Grand Prix of St Petersburg. During the two-day test event held from April 23 to April 24, the team encountered a smooth session, completing 405 laps without major complications. Although neither Ilott nor Shwartzman topped the timing sheets, the extensive running provided valuable data for further analysis leading up to the big race.
Ilott shared insights about his partnership with Shwartzman, emphasizing their previous collaboration during their time at the Ferrari academy. When asked about offering advice to his rookie teammate, Callum mentioned that while Shwartzman is new to the Indy 500 experience, his own familiarity with the race serves as an advantage. “It’s all about sharing knowledge and supporting each other,” Ilott conveyed, showcasing the teamwork ethos that underpins PREMA Racing.
Robert Shwartzman, who joined IndyCar for the 2025 season after his stint as a Ferrari F1 reserve driver, has been equally enthusiastic about their joint preparation. Callum reflected on the team’s current standing, highlighting their resilience following a challenging start when Shwartzman’s car faced issues at the Thermal Club IndyCar race. According to Ilott, by the time the Indy 500 arrives, PREMA will have laid a solid foundation to build upon.
The preparation and commitment of Callum Ilott and Robert Shwartzman exemplify the spirit of the racing community as they look to make a significant impact at the Indy 500. With 34 entries confirmed, fans are eager to see how this new team will perform in one of racing’s greatest challenges. The anticipation surrounding this event continues to build, promising an unforgettable race day for both the drivers and spectators alike.
