Snappy newsletters. Simple Facebook sharing. Spirited comments. Sweet features are waiting… GET THEM NOW!

Indy Driver Raises Profile—on Dance Floor

Castroneves' popularity surges after stint with stars

By Jamie Buss,  Newser Staff

Posted May 23, 2008 12:00 PM CDT

(Newser) – Six months ago, few beyond IndyCar fans recognized the name Helio Castroneves. Thanks to "Dancing with the Stars," however, Helio’s celebrity-status has skyrocketed. The Indy Racing League is enjoying the ride—the racer’s surge in popularity has been tremendous for the sport.  "It's interesting to be in this spot because of dancing," said Castroneves. "I always thought it would be because of racing."

Though Castroneves’ stint on the show is over, the friends he made on the program are following him to the Indy 500 this weekend. Former competitor Floyd Mayweather will wave the race’s green flag and Helio’s dancing partner, Julianne Hough, will perform the national anthem. "Next year, I don't know if people will remember me or not," said Castroneves. "Maybe I'll have new opportunities. But right now, it's racing."

Indianapolis 500 and Dancing with the Stars champion Helio Castroneves poses with the Borg-Warner and Mirror Ball Trophies at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2007.
Indianapolis 500 and "Dancing with the Stars" champion Helio Castroneves poses with the Borg-Warner and Mirror Ball Trophies at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2007.   (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
In this image released by ABC, Dancing with the Stars contestants Julianne Hough,right, and Helio Castroneves compete on the Nov. 19, 2007 episode in Los Angeles.
In this image released by ABC, "Dancing with the Stars" contestants Julianne Hough,right, and Helio Castroneves compete on the Nov. 19, 2007 episode in Los Angeles.   (AP Photo/ABC, Carol Kaelson)
Indy race driver Helio Castroneves, of Brazil, signs autographs for children on a school field trip before the start practice for the Indianapolis 500.
Indy race driver Helio Castroneves, of Brazil, signs autographs for children on a school field trip before the start practice for the Indianapolis 500.   (AP Photo/Michael Conroy, File)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
To report an error on this story, notify our editors.
A snapshot of the day's best news stories.
 
COMMENTS
Be the first to comment on this story.

More Newser Stories

Franchitti Wins 2nd Indy 500

Helio's Dance Card Opens Up

Helio Races to 'Dancing' Win

IndyCar CEO Had Promised More 'Carnage'

Chaz Bono DWTS Pick Sparks Dialogue on Transgenders


NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS
Other Sites We Like:   24/7 Wall St.   |   Betty Confidential   |   BuzzFeed   |   Cracked   |   Fark   |   Timelines   |   The Frisky   |   Geek Sugar   |   NewsOne