IndyCar rookie Caio Collet experienced a frightening crash during the Indianapolis 500 on Sunday afternoon. This occurred while Felix Rosenqvist and Pato O’Ward were contending for first place.
Collet’s vehicle lost control in Turn 2 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, leading to an overcorrection that sent his car into the wall. The collision resulted in the right rear of his car catching fire as it skidded down the track and onto the grass.
Caio Collet drives a Combitrans AJ Foyt Enterprises Chevrolet through turn three during practice on Miller Lite Carb Day at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis, Ind., on May 22, 2026.
Emergency personnel swiftly arrived to extinguish the fire and assist Collet out of his vehicle. Fortunately, he was able to walk away from the accident, unharmed. However, track officials deemed it necessary to call for a red flag, which paused the race and allowed drivers a short break.
Despite the incident, Collet fell down the leaderboard as he did not complete the race. This event marked his debut participation in the Indy 500. He ascended to the NTT IndyCar Series after a successful tenure in the Indy NXT Series, where he secured second place last year, winning three races in 2025.
The Brazilian racer entered the Indianapolis 500 standing in 21st place in the IndyCar rankings, with 70 points over six starts. So far, he has not achieved a top-10 finish in his inaugural season.
David Maluka talks with Caio Collet before practice for the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis on May 18, 2026.
The 2026 Indy 500 showcased more than 50 lead changes, making it one of the most competitive races in recent memory. Felix Rosenqvist emerged victorious, crossing the finish line first.