The Economics of Speed City: Dallara, Helio Castroneves, and Indiana's $3B Motorsports Industry

Indiana's motorsports industry generates nearly $3 billion annually for the state economy, and the companies, drivers, and innovators behind that number are the focus of this week's Business at the Brickyard coverage from Dallara USA's headquarters in Speedway. Stefano DePonti, CEO of Dallara USA, explains how the Italian chassis manufacturer has expanded its only facility outside Italy since opening in Speedway in 2012, taking on production across IndyCar, NASCAR, IMSA, and defense and aerospace projects. He also addresses how tariffs have accelerated the shift of manufacturing to Indiana, and how a partnership with Purdue University's motorsports engineering program is bridging the gap between academic curriculum and industry demands. IBJ Media podcaster and Indianapolis Motor Speedway voice Dave Calabro sits down with four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves, who at 51 is chasing an unprecedented fifth victory. Castroneves reflects on his 2009 federal tax evasion trial, his acquittal, and how returning to racing that same year reinvigorated his career. Also covered: Lafayette-based Tactile Engineering and its Cadence Tactile Tablet, a Purdue University startup device that allows blind and visually impaired fans to feel live race action through real-time telemetry data. Plus, 2022 Indianapolis 500 champion Marcus Ericsson on nutrition and race preparation, the Wilshaw Hotel's uncertain fate across from the Speedway, and Indiana business headlines including a Corteva headquarters decision and a new Duke Energy project in Vermillion County. #IndyCar #Indy500 #InsideIndianaBusiness