Our motorsport photo of the day for July 25th features Helio Castroneves paying respect to the late Dan Wheldon following his victory at the 2012 Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.
Dan Wheldon was tragically killed at the IZOD Indycar World Championship race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in 2011. The 33 year-old was a hugely popular figure within the Indycar paddock, and sadly left his wife and two children after succumbing to injuries sustained in a 15 car wreck during the final race of the season.
As the Indycar circus descended on St. Petersburg for the first race of 2012, emotions remained raw following the tragedy at Las Vegas. Starting from 5th on the grid, Castroneves stayed in touch with the leaders throughout the early portion of the race. Eventually, it would be Castroneves and Scott Dixon fighting for the win, with the Brazilian making an impressive pass on Dixon and leading the final 26 laps for an emotional win.
During his post-race victory lap, Castroneves stopped to pay his respects to the late Dan Wheldon at a street sign erected in his honour. The Brazilian climbed the catch fencing to celebrate in the name of the St. Petersburg resident, and also said a prayer as he jumped down from the turn 10 barriers.
Castroneves’ tribute created this stunning photo as the motorsport world came to terms with the death of the two-time Indianapolis 500 winner.
Image: ESPN
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