IRL plans token boost to Indy 500 purse

The Indianapolis 500 might be the biggest winner in the Indy Racing League financial structure expected to be unveiled next week. Brian Barnhart, the IRL's president of competition, said the 500 is in line for major increases in the money it pays participants, including the winner. The boosts come as a result of increases in race ticket sales and sponsorship commitments, he said.

"I think you're going to like Indy," he said Tuesday, declining to divulge specifics. "Consistent with the centennial celebration (of Indianapolis Motor Speedway), you need a record purse. This will be that, both overall and the winner's share."

The total 500 payout reached $10 million in 2002 but rose to only $10.66 million for this year's race. By comparison, NASCAR's marquee event, the Daytona 500, swelled from $12.31 million to $18.38 million during that same period.

Dario Franchitti received $1.64 million for winning the 500 in May, but Buddy Rice (2004) and Sam Hornish Jr. (2006) received more for their victories. In 1997, Arie Luyendyk earned $1.56 million. More at Indy Star