Indy 500 Qualifier Agustin Canapino Carrying the Hopes of Argentina

• At the 107th running of the Indy 500, the No. 78 Juncos-Hollinger Racing Chevrolet of 33-year-old IndyCar rookie Agustin Canapino carries the colors of Argentina.

• The team fielding Canapino is owned by Argentinian Ricardo Juncos, with Brad Hollinger.

• Canapino is no stranger to the sports spotlight, as he was awarded the Olimpia de Oro 2018 award (over the likes or soccer superstar Lionel Messi) for the Argentine Sportsman of the Year.

National colors used in motor racing are a fascinating aspect of the sport, reflecting the pride and identity of different countries. Up to the 1960s, various nations associated specific colors with their racing teams, creating a rich tapestry of iconic liveries.

The association between Italy and the color red is deeply rooted in the country's racing heritage, symbolizing passion, speed, and Italian pride. German race cars were white until the 750 kg maximum weight rule came into place in 1934. To take some pounds off the cars the paint was removed and the shiny aluminum became the silver color associated with the Teutonic cars.

British racing cars are dark green. Japanese racing teams often utilize white with red accents or the iconic red sun symbol. French blue is an unmistakable hue.

The role of sports in politics has also played a significant role throughout history, with nations utilizing sports as a platform to promote their political agendas, diplomatic relations, and national identity. The intersection of sports and politics and the relationship between sports and national culture can be observed in various contexts.

Argentina's love for soccer is deeply intertwined with its national identity and politics. Soccer holds a significant place in Argentine culture, and the sport has often been utilized as a tool for political mobilization and expression. The Argentine national team's successes, particularly in international tournaments like the FIFA World Cup, have been a source of immense national pride and unity. Political leaders in Argentina have recognized the power of soccer in garnering public support and have sometimes aligned themselves with the sport and its famous figures to gain political leverage.

A victory with national colors elevates the sport's significance within society and fosters a passion among the youth. A national team's success can also generate economic benefits, such as increased tourism, sponsorship opportunities, and investments in infrastructure. Furthermore, it provides a platform to showcase a country's cultural heritage, traditions, and values to a global audience.

At the 107th running of the Indy 500, the No. 78 Juncos-Hollinger Racing Chevrolet of 33-year-old IndyCar rookie Agustin Canapino carries the colors of Argentina and features the three stars that symbolize the number of soccer World Cups the country has won.

Martin "Macoco" Alzaga Unzue—a racer from the Pampas of South America—and his Bugatti raced in the 1923 Indianapolis 500. Fellow countryman Raul Riganti raced in three Indy 500s between 1923 and 1940.

Now, it's Canapino's turn.

Canapino was awarded the Olimpia de Oro 2018 award (over the likes or soccer superstar Lionel Messi) for the Argentine Sportsman of the Year. He and Juan Manuel Fangio are the only racing drivers to win this national award.