Barrichello earns $330k as Indy 500 'rookie'

Rubens Barrichello earned more than US $330,000 in Sunday's Indy 500. At the age of 40 and with an unprecedented 326 grands prix behind him, the famous Brazilian was the highest placed newcomer in the fabled American oval race.

It means he was crowned the official 'rookie of the year' title for his eleventh place finish, earning him $331,080 in prize money. "My first oval experience, it was very different than anything I've done," said Barrichello. "It's a pity that we didn't finish top ten but I can be proud of that for my first time out."

Winner Dario Franchitti's earnings were almost $2.5 million.

Barrichello's fellow grand prix winner Jean Alesi, however, went home empty handed, having been disqualified for lapping too slowly in his Lotus-powered Indycar. "It was frustrating but the (105pc) regulation is fair and I leave with a lot of respect for the Indy 500," said the 47-year-old Frenchman. "I hope to return next year. I will start to prepare now." (GMM)