Alexander Rossi racing after crash is reality of Indy 500: 'We're a bunch of psychos'

INDIANAPOLIS -- Alexander Rossi arrived at Indianapolis 500 media day on crutches, balancing on one good foot as he maneuvered through the media center. Three days earlier, Rossi slammed into the wall in Turn 2 during practice , suffering injuries that required surgery on his right ankle and left middle finger. On Thursday, the 2016 Indy 500 winner confirmed he will still start Sunday’s race from the front row after being medically cleared to compete.

Though for Rossi, there was never much debate about whether he would race. “Oh, absolutely not,” he said when asked if he considered sitting out. Before being cleared to race, Rossi had to drive on a simulator and demonstrate he could safely enter and exit the car in an emergency.

He is also expected to compete with a specially fitted brace designed to stabilize his ankle without restricting movement on the pedals. “Fortunately, to drive a race car, you don't have to bear weight,” he said. “Range of motion is good.

Pain is minimal. Swelling, as you can see, I fit into my race boot. I'm good to go.