TV ratings increase for Indianapolis 500

INDIANAPOLIS – Early television ratings are showing this year's Indianapolis 500 had more viewers than any time since 2008.

Based on the numbers provided by Nielsen Media Research and ESPN, Sunday's race attracted nearly 6.9 million viewers and drew a 4.34 rating. The 2011 race, won by the late Dan Wheldon, drew a 4.03. That was also Danica Patrick's final Indy 500 appearance before jumping to NASCAR.

Series officials say the 4.34 for Sunday's race, the third victory for Dario Franchitti, was the best showing since Scott Dixon won the race in 2008.