Helio Castroneves

Born in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Helio Castroneves was 2 years old when his family moved to Ribeirão Preto, SP. Growing up with the support of his parents Castroneves and Sandra, and his big sister, Kati, his passion for racing ignited at age twelve.

Castroneves started his racing career in Go Karts from 1987 until 1991, securing a national championship and gaining two years of experience in the World Cup CIK. In 1992, he advanced to Formula Chevrolet, finishing second in the championship. The following two years saw him competing in F3 South America, where he also finished second each year. In 1995, at twenty years old, Castroneves relocated to England to join the Paul Stewart Racing (PSR) team, competing in the British Formula Three Championship and finishing third in the standings.

The move to American open-wheel racing came in 1996 when Castroneves competed in the Indy Lights Series for two seasons. By 1998, he was racing in the CART series with the Tony Bettenhausen Jr. team, followed by a stint with Hogan Racing in 1999. His career trajectory took a significant upturn when he joined Team Penske in 2000, a partnership that led to his first series victory at the 2000 Detroit Grand Prix. This victory marked the debut of his now-iconic victory celebration, climbing the fence.

Castroneves first competed in the Indianapolis 500 in 2001 with Team Penske, quickly making his mark by winning the race and continuing to do so in 2002. He achieved a third victory in 2009, making him one of the few drivers to win the Indianapolis 500 four times, with his latest win in 2021 with Meyer Shank Racing. Additionally, he holds a record for ninety-three top ten finishes in the IRL IndyCar Series and the most consecutive seasons with a race win, totaling ten.

Apart from his racing career, Castroneves won the fifth season of "Dancing with the Stars" and returned for the fifteenth season. He is also the author of "Victory Road – the Ride of My Life." His charity work is extensive, including contributions to HCA Hospitals, the Dan Marino Foundation, and other notable organizations. He also played a key role in transforming one of his donated cars into a Mobile Play Room for children in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.

Currently residing in South Florida with his fiancée Adriana and their daughter Mikaella, Castroneves remains one of the most successful and popular drivers in motorsports history, known for his enduring speed, skill, and the enthusiasm of a rookie racer. His achievements in motor sports are recognized widely, and he remains a competitive force in the IndyCar Series.