The Indianapolis 500 is often referred to as The Greatest Spectacle in Racing. It’s not just a test of speed and endurance but a battlefield of legendary rivalries that have carved their names into the records of motorsport history. Today, we discover 15 historic rivalries that left an undeniable mark on the Indianapolis 500.

Lewis Hamilton vs Nico Rosberg

Both drivers were Mercedes teammates, and their competition was characterized by its close, often contentious nature. The rivalry between Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg came to a head during the 2016 season when they were in a tight battle for the championship. The tension was noticeable on and off the track, with several collisions and controversial moves.

A.J. Foyt vs Mario Andretti

A.J. Foyt and Mario Andretti are two of the most legendary names in American motorsport, and their rivalry in the 1960s is a symbol of the spirit of the Indianapolis 500. Foyt’s aggressive approach contrasted with Andretti’s more calculated and precise driving. Their clashes at the Indy 500 were dramatic, with both drivers seeking to outdo each other in speed and strategy.

Carl Edwards vs Brad Keselowski

The battle between Carl Edwards and Brad Keselowski is remembered for its intensity and the dramatic incidents often resulting in spectacular crashes. Keselowski’s aggressive driving led to a collision that sent Edwards’ car airborne at Talladega. The competition between the two drivers grew over the years, with multiple on-track altercations, including a notable clash in Atlanta in 2010.

Jim Clark vs Graham Hill

Many people remember one of the most iconic rivalries of the 1960s — Jim Clark’s vs Graham Hill’s at the Indianapolis 500. It was marked by mutual respect and a shared pursuit of excellence. The competition between Clark and Hill peaked at the 1966 Indianapolis 500 when Clark, driving for Lotus, and Hill, in a Lola-Ford, were both strong contenders. The race saw Hill win after a dramatic and controversial finish, with Clark finishing second.

Michael Schumacher vs Damon Hill

With both drivers aiming for the top spot in the sport, the rivalry between Michael Schumacher and Damon Hill in the mid-1990s was a great representation of Formula 1’s intense competitive spirit. The 1994 season ended controversially in Adelaide when Schumacher collided with Hill, securing his first World Championship. Their rivalry continued with several on-track incidents and psychological battles the following year.

Sébastien Loeb vs Sébastien Ogier

It’s hard to believe that the rivalry between these two never caused any personal conflict. The battle between two of the greatest drivers in the history of the World Rally Championship defined the sport for over a decade, but they always showed respect for one another. Loeb dominated the WRC from 2004 to 2012, winning nine consecutive championships with Citroën. Until Ogier, also driving for Citroën early in his career, emerged as a rising talent, challenging Loeb’s dominance.

Nigel Mansell vs Nelson Piquet

Racing enthusiasts remember this rivalry in the Williams in the mid-1980s for its intensity and internal team conflict. Both drivers were highly competitive and determined to be the number one driver. Mansell and Piquet had several on-track clashes and off-track disagreements despite being teammates. The 1986 season was particularly notable for the dramatic finale in Adelaide, where both drivers were in contention for the title.

Porsche 917 vs Ferrari 512

Porsche 917 and Ferrari 512 were highly competitive in the early 1970s in endurance racing. The rivalry symbolizes the fierce competition between two of the most iconic manufacturers in motorsport history. In 1970, Porsche introduced the 917, a car that revolutionized endurance racing with its speed and power. Ferrari responded with the 512, aiming to challenge Porsche’s dominance.

Carlos Sainz vs Colin McRae

Carlos Sainz and Colin McRae battled several times during the 1990s, highlighting their contrasting driving styles. Sainz was known for his precision and consistency, clashing with McRae’s aggressive and flamboyant style. In 1995, both drivers were part of the Subaru team, and McRae ultimately won the championship that year, but their battles on various rally stages worldwide became legendary.

McLaren vs Ferrari

This rivalry is one of the longest-running and most storied in Formula 1 history. It represents the competition between two of the sport’s most successful and prestigious teams. The competition has seen numerous intense seasons, particularly in the late 1980s and early 2000s.

Mercedes vs. Auto Union

Ongoing since the 1930s, the competition between Mercedes and Auto Union, now Audi, was a defining moment in the pre-World War II era of Grand Prix racing. With both teams pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering, it showcased the technological advancements and fierce competition between two German manufacturers.

Kevin Schwantz vs Wayne Rainey

The early 1990s marked one of the most memorable rivalries in MotoGP history, marked by its intense and often personal nature. American riders Schwantz and Rainey battled fiercely on the track, with Schwantz riding for Suzuki and Rainey for Yamaha. Numerous thrilling races and close finishes highlighted the competition. Despite their fierce competition, both riders respected each other deeply, and their rivalry is remembered for pushing the sport to new heights.

John Surtees vs Eugenio Dragoni

Highlighting the intense political and personal dynamics within motorsport teams, the conflict between John Surtees and Ferrari team manager Eugenio Dragoni in the mid-1960s was one that everyone still remembers. After the rivalry peaked in 1966 during the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Surtees finally left Ferrari in frustration, and the departure affected Ferrari’s performance in both Formula 1 and endurance racing.

Tazio Nuvolari vs Achille Varzi

Tazio Nuvolari and Achille Varzi shared fierce competition in the 1930s, showing the contrasting styles of two of Italy’s greatest pre-war racing drivers. Nuvolari was known for his daring and aggressive driving and often found himself battling Varzi, who was celebrated for his precision and calm under pressure. Their rivalry featured numerous epic duels, most famously the 1933 Monaco Grand Prix, where they raced wheel-to-wheel for the entire event.

Jackie Stewart vs Denis Jenkinson

Stewart, a three-time Formula 1 World Champion, was a vocal advocate for improved safety in motorsport. He often clashed with Jenkinson, a prominent motorsport journalist known for his traditionalist views. Notably, Stewart’s campaigning led to significant improvements in safety standards, including better track conditions and medical facilities.