Why Does the Winner of the Indy 500 Drink Milk? Truth Exposed
by Abinaya | Updated May 29, 2023
What is Indy 500 Drink Milk?
The tradition of drinking milk at the Indy 500, which originated in 1936 when Louis Meyer, a three-time winner of the race, consumed buttermilk on Victory Lane, has become a marketing campaign. Recognizing the promotional potential, the dairy industry began supplying milk to the winners, a tradition that has endured to this day. As part of the tradition, the victorious driver is presented with a bottle of milk to drink on Victory Lane.
The Indy 500 Drink Milk tradition has effectively promoted milk consumption. According to a study conducted by the University of Illinois, milk consumption saw a 10% increase in the week following the Indy 500. Moreover, the tradition has contributed to raising awareness about the nutritional benefits of milk for maintaining good health.
The Indy 500 Drink Milk tradition holds a special place in the race's history, standing as a distinctive and iconic element. Both fans and drivers cherish this tradition, and its continuity is assured for the foreseeable future.
Why does the Winner of the Indy 500 Drink Milk?
The tradition of the winner of the Indy 500 drinking milk dates back to 1936 when Louis Meyer, in Victory Lane, chose to refresh himself with buttermilk based on his mother's recommendation for a hot day, as stated in a 2022 IndyStar article.
When a dairy industry executive came across a photograph of Meyer drinking the milk, they recognized its promotional potential and decided to offer milk to future winners. In the 1950s, the Indiana Dairy Association became an official sponsor of the tradition. Presently, every driver is asked about their milk preference, whether whole or skim, in anticipation of the opportunity to partake in the celebration with it.
Who is the Winner of the Indy 500 Drink Milk?
Josef Newgarden, a two-time IndyCar champion from Henderson, Tennessee, emerged victorious in his first Indy 500 race. In a thrilling one-lap shootout, he overtook defending race winner Marcus Ericsson and crossed the finish line at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The race was filled with intense moments and multiple red flags, but Newgarden held his nerve and secured the checkered flag, granting team owner Roger Penske his 19th victory at the legendary track.
An ecstatic Newgarden expressed his determination to win the race, acknowledging the pressure and expectations associated with the event. His emotional journey culminated in a sprint toward the cheering fans, where he celebrated his well-deserved triumph. Despite having competed in the Indy 500 11 times before, Josef Newgarden had never achieved a finish higher than third place at The Brickyard.
However, in his 27th career IndyCar race, Newgarden defied the odds. Starting from the 17th position, the farthest back for a winner since 2014, he took the lead for a total of five laps and emerged as the triumphant victor.
Which Indy 500 Winner did not Drink the Milk?
Emerson Fittipaldi stands as a notable exception among the Indy 500 winners who partook in the cherished milk-drinking tradition. In 1993, the accomplished Brazilian driver triumphed in the race and found himself on Victory Lane. However, he made a bold departure from the norm by choosing not to conform to the customary milk-drinking ritual. Instead, Fittipaldi took the opportunity to promote his own breakfast beverage interests, surprising both the crowd and the racing community.
When questioned about his intention to drink the milk, Fittipaldi defiantly responded, "No, I'm not going to have the milk." This unexpected deviation from the revered tradition, which had been honored for decades, created a stir among fans and enthusiasts. Fittipaldi further explained that he would opt for his own product, orange juice, as he hailed from a region renowned for its production of the citrusy beverage.
Although Fittipaldi eventually succumbed to pressure and privately consumed the milk after the cameras had turned away, the impact of his initial decision was already felt. His departure from the revered tradition resulted in an immediate backlash, and his popularity suffered as a consequence. Despite his later compliance, the memory of Fittipaldi's bold stand against the customary milk-drinking ritual remains etched in Indy 500 history.
Why does the Winner of the Indy 500 Drink Milk - FAQ
The dairy industry recognized the promotional potential of the tradition and started providing milk to the winners. The Indiana Dairy Association became an official sponsor in the 1950s.
Marcus Ericsson won the 2023 Indianapolis 500, and he celebrated his victory by drinking whole milk in Victory Lane.
Emerson Fittipaldi, the 1993 winner, broke tradition by refusing to drink milk. He chose to promote his own breakfast beverage interests, specifically orange juice, resulting in a backlash and negative impact on his popularity. However, he later privately consumed the milk after the cameras turned away.
According to a study by the University of Illinois, milk consumption increased by 10% in the week following the Indy 500, showcasing the effective promotion of milk consumption through the tradition.
The Indy 500 Drink Milk tradition holds a special place in the race's history, being an iconic and cherished element loved by fans and drivers alike. Its continuation is guaranteed for years to come.