Motorsports Hall of Fame of America Announces 2027 Induction Class
Motorsports Hall of Fame of America Announces 2027 Induction Class
RRDC Members Lyn St. James, Herb Fishel and Rob Dyson are Among the Inductees
The Motorsports Hall of Fame of America (MSHFA) announced its 2027 Induction Class at the 51st running of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. The 39th MSHFA Induction Celebration presented by Toyota Gazoo Racing, which will formally bring the Class of 2027 into the MSHFA, will be held in the Hall’s home of Daytona Beach next March.
Among the inductees were three members of the RRDC.
Lyn St. James: The first woman to win Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year.
INDYCAR President J. Douglas Boles, IMSA resent John Doonan and MSHFA president Daren Lucas (left to right) join Lynn St. James at the MSHFA press conference.
Lyn St. James (At Large): The first woman to win Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year (1992), St. James built on the work of inductees Janet Guthrie, Denise McCluggage and others to open doors for women at the highest levels of American racing. St. James won numerous sports car events, including IMSA GTO victories at Sebring in 1990 and the Rolex 24 At Daytona in1987 and 1990. Her best GTP finish was third at Watkins Glen in 1984 with Howdy Holmes. She also competed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. St. James made 16 Indy car starts (1992 – 2000), with a career-best eighth at Walt Disney World in 1996. She qualified sixth for the 1994 Indy 500 (224.154 mph) and was the first woman to lap an oval at over 200 mph in 1985, later upping her women’s closed course speed record to 227.32 mph. One of the foremost female drivers of her era and an inspiration to others, St. James was named one of the Sports Illustrated Top 100 Women Athletes of the Century. St. James joins Angelle Sampey (Motorcycles) as the first women inductees since the late sports car driver and journalist Denise McCluggage (At Large) was enshrined in 2022. In 2021, an all-time class high three women were inducted, an illustrious list that includes Judy Stropus (Sports Cars), Fran Muncey (Power Boats) and, the first woman to race in the Indianapolis 500, Janet Guthrie (Open Wheel).
Lynn St. James at Phoenix International Raceway in 1993.
Herb Fishel: The executive who led GM’s racing operations to unprecedented results.
Herb Fishel behind the wheel of the “Fuel Injection Special,” at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) Museum. This legendary Kurtis-Kraft roadster won the Indy 500 in 1953 and 1954 driven by Bill Vukovich.
Herb Fishel (Business): When the Winston-Salem native graduated from nearby North Carolina State University with a mechanical engineering degree, he wanted to work for a NASCAR team. Instead, he was hired by General Motors, where he rose to run a racing operation that achieved unprecedented results. During Fishel’s tenure, GM won 25 NASCAR manufacturers’ championships – 11 consecutive (1981-91) – 12 Indy 500s and numerous drag, off-road and sports car racing titles. He was also a pivotal figure in the Corvette programs that scored overall and class wins at Daytona and Le Mans and made “America’s sports car” a world-class winner. Much of the success achieved by inductees, including Dale Earnhardt, Tommy Kendall, Junior Johnson and Darrell Waltrip is directly attributable to him. In the early 1990s, Fishel led the effort to install black boxes in race cars, dramatically improving driver safety. He was inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame in 2005, the Corvette Hall of Fame in 2015 and the Drag Racing Hall of Fame in 2006.
Rob Dyson (Sports Cars): Founder of the successful Dyson Racing and a winning Rolex 24 At Daytona driver.
Rob Dyson (left) with Skip Barber.
Rob Dyson (Sports Cars): Robert Dyson is founder and principal of Dyson Racing, one of the most successful in sports car racing history to date and the winner of 19 championships, 70 races, 69 pole positions and 215 podiums, including championships in ALMS, IMSA, USRRC, and Grand-Am. Dyson started driving a Datsun 510 in club racing in 1974, winning the 1981 SCCA GT2 national championship. Turning professional in 1983, Dyson won four races overall as a driver during the height of the IMSA GTP era, including the 1997 24 Hours of Daytona. Dyson Racing Team drivers won the Porsche Cup North America four years consecutively (1985-88). Championships include The IMSA Drivers and Team Championship (1997-98); USRRC Drivers and Team Championship (1998-99); ALMS LMP900 championship (1999) and Grand-Am Drivers and Team championships (2000-01). Dyson retired from driving in 2007 but remains the organization’s leader, supported by son Chris Dyson, who has won multiple championships for the team.
About the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America:
The MSHFA is the only hall that honors all major American motorsports: cars, motorcycles, airplanes, off road and powerboats. Its mission is to celebrate and instill the American motorsports values of leadership, creativity, originality, teamwork and spirit of competition. Founded by Larry G. Ciancio and led by first President Ronald A. Watson, it held its first induction in 1989. Watson spent the next 30 years tirelessly building it into the nation’s premier such hall until his passing in 2019. Originally based in Novi, Mich., it relocated to Daytona Beach, Fla., in 2016 and greets more than 150,000 guests a year in its museum. MSHFA is operated by the nonprofit Motorsports Museum and Hall of Fame of America Foundation, Inc.
Derek Bell MBE Honored by Road Racing Drivers Club in Long Beach
Derek Bell MBE Honored by Road Racing Drivers Club in Long Beach
Proceeds from sponsorships, ticket sales and silent auctions at gala benefit The Mark Donohue Foundation
Derek Bell and Bobby Rahal enjoying a laugh during the interview. (Brandon O’Brien/Motor Driven Images)
The Road Racing Drivers Club honored Hall of Famer Derek Bell MBE at a gala on Thursday at the Westin Hotel in Long Beach, California, in advance of the 51st Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. Bell’s racing career is one of the most successful diverse and wide-ranging of any British racing driver.
A capacity crowd of racing luminaries representing a variety of racing series, including INDYCAR, IMSA and NHRA, along with such racing champions as Mario Andretti, Indy 500 winners Tony Kanaan and Arie Luyendyk, and McLaren’s Zak Brown were in attendance at the dinner presented by Firestone.
Bell is best known as the consummate endurance sports car driver who won the Le Mans 24 Hours five times, the Daytona 24 Hours three times and the World Sports Car Championship twice.
The evening featured Derek’s son, Justin, as M.C., assisting RRDC president Bobby Rahal during the leather-chairs interview on the stage. Memories poured out from Derek’s time with Ferrari, Porsche and other marques, his five victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and his heartwarming Le Mans podium finish in 1995 with son Justin.
Justin Bell, Derek Bell and Bobby Rahal (Brandon O’Brien/Motor Driven Images)
“Derek’s career demonstrated remarkable longevity,” said Rahal. “He competed in major endurance races from the late 1960s through the mid-1990s, even sharing the cockpit at Le Mans with his son, Justin, and finishing on the podium in a McLaren F1 GTR in 1995. By the time he stepped away from top level competition, Derek Bell had accumulated more than 50 race victories and a reputation as one of the finest and most respected drivers of his era.”
“This is a great honor,” said Derek. “America is so big to me in my life. I’m married to an American. And so to get an award for all the racing and the pleasure that I got out of it, [I hope] it gives some other people on the way pleasure as well. And I think what has been created that I’ve been part of in all these years is making sports cars such a big class of racing. No thanks to me, particularly, but all of us who are in it. I just have so much grace for people like Al Holbert who had me on board and Bob Akin, and people like that.”
Said Justin, “Isn’t it fun to be honored for being part of honoring your dad? And what an opportunity. And, I think, in the history of the RRDC, it’s probably a first to be able to do that. I’m so proud of him and what he’s achieved. Two things: I am proud to host this gala and then proud to honor him. So very special.”
Derek, Justin’s daughter Tallulah, Justin’s partner Mailani DeYoung, and Justin (Brandon O’Brien/Motor Driven Images)
Other Bell family members in attendance were Justin’s daughter Tallulah. Justin was also joined by his partner Mailani DeYoung.
Jim Michaelian, Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President and CEO, who passed away just weeks before the gala, was recognized for his more than five decades of success with the Grand Prix with tributes in a video from Bobby Rahal, Mario Andretti and Roger Penske, and by motorsports journalist Marshall Pruett at the podium. Family members, including Michaelian’s wife Mary, their sons Bob and Michael and brother-in-law Frank Thompson, were acknowledged in the audience.
“You often think about someone’s achievements as ‘they won this, have these many trophies, been crowned champion so many times,'” said Pruett. “None of those things apply when we speak about Jim. Not that he didn’t have success as a driver. This is a man who ran a motor race. Yet was a champion to us. A champion of a person.”
A portion of the proceeds of the dinner benefit The Mark Donohue Foundation, which supports the RRDC’s SAFEisFAST initiative. Funds were raised through ticket sales, sponsorships and silent auctions, with a prized win being the unique 10 ft. x 20 ft. Derek Bell stage backdrop. It pays tribute to his five 24 Hours of Le Mans victories, depicting (left to right) the Gulf Mirage G8R in 1975, the Jules Porsche 936 in 1981, the Rothmans Porsche 956 in 1982, and the Rothmans Porsche 962 in 1986 and 1987.
Justin Bell, Derek Bell and Bobby Rahal (Brandon O’Brien/Motor Driven Images)
In previous years, the RRDC has honored individual icons of the sport: Dan Gurney, Parnelli Jones, Roger Penske, Jim Hall, Brian Redman, Mario Andretti, Bobby Unser, George Follmer, Emerson Fittipaldi, Johnny Rutherford. David Hobbs, Rick Mears, Jacky Ickx, and Sir Jackie Stewart. In 2026, the RRDC helped celebrate the 50 years of the Grand Prix of Long Beach with drivers Brian Redman, Al Unser Jr. and Mario Andretti. These RRDC galas are acknowledged as highlights of the auto-racing social calendar, drawing fans and luminaries from all forms of motorsports.
The RRDC thanks its sponsors and supporters of the gala, which include reception sponsors SEMA/PRI and Yamaava’ Resort & Casino; Platinum Sponsor – Club Wheelhouse; Silver Sponsor – The Micheal Bealmear Family; and supporting partners – Bobby Rahal Automotive Group, Omologato Watches, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, Bring A Trailer and Slot Mods.
About the RRDC:
The Road Racing Drivers Club was formed in 1952 as a way to give champion drivers a say in their sport, particularly in the areas of safety, and has evolved to serve the future of road racing by mentoring new drivers on both amateur and professional levels. The Club’s membership includes leading industry professionals, race officials and motorsports journalists, in addition to prominent racing names.
In 2011, the RRDC launched a free on-line training seminar – www.SAFEisFAST.com – featuring RRDC members and other industry experts in high-quality videos covering subjects from physical and mental preparation to driving techniques, driver safety to car setup and sponsorship. The videos are updated regularly. Each week, a professional from the world of motor racing answers readers’ questions on the site in a feature called ‘Ask a Pro.’ Bobby Rahal is President, John Fergus is Vice President/Treasurer and John Clagett is Secretary. The RRDC presents three annual awards: the Phil Hill Award, the Mark Donohue Award, and the Bob Akin Award. Membership in the RRDC is by invitation only. Additional information on the organization may be found at www.rrdc.org.
Road Racing Drivers Club – rrdc.org
Timothy McGrane Joins Retromobile New York
Timothy McGrane Joins Retromobile New York
as Head of Business Development
Photo: Laurie Tennent
I’m excited to share that I’ve joined the team behind Retromobile New York as Head of Business Development.
For those who know it, Retromobile Officiel in Paris has been one of the world’s great automotive events for the past 50 years—bringing together incredible cars, collectors, and stories from across the globe. And now, for the first time, that legacy is coming to the U.S.
The inaugural Rétromobile New York will take place November 19–22, 2026 at the Javits Center—right on Manhattan’s West Side.
This will be more than just a car show. It’s a celebration of automotive heritage and timeless design—where iconic machines, fine art, memorabilia, and the people behind them come together, plus a major auction with Gooding Christie’s — all with a distinctly American car culture influence woven throughout.
I’ve had the privilege of being part of Rétromobile in Paris over the years—going back to my Blackhawk Collection days—and I’m genuinely excited to help bring this new event to life in New York.
If you have any interest in being part of the inaugural edition of Rétromobile New York – as an exhibitor, partner, or simply a passionate enthusiast – please reach out. More to come soon.
And, yes, I will be continuing my involvement with the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on its 75th Anniversary this August.
Tim
PETER BROCK Named Grand Marshal of the 2026 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca announced today that legendary automotive designer, racer, and motorsports visionary Peter Brock will serve as Grand Marshal of the 2026 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, one of the world’s premier celebrations of historic racing.
A pivotal figure in American motorsports history, Brock’s career spans design, engineering, competition, and storytelling. Brock first made his mark at GM Styling as one of the youngest designers hired in at the age of 19. In November of 1957 he drew the sketch which became the iconic 1963 Corvette split window Sting Ray. Before the Sting Ray even hit the market, Brock joined Carroll Shelby in Los Angeles to run his new race driver’s school and played a key role in shaping the Cobra program and designing the Shelby Daytona Coupe which won the FIA GT Championship in 1965. He then founded Brock Racing Enterprises (BRE), the team that turned compact Japanese sedans into championship-winning race cars. Read More…
Justin Bell to Host RRDC Evening with Derek Bell MBE Presented by Firestone in Long Beach April 16, 2026
Justin Bell to Host RRDC Evening with Derek Bell MBE
Presented by Firestone in Long Beach
April 16, 2026
Tickets to the Evening with Derek Bell MBE still available;
Jim Michaelian to be remembered
LONG BEACH, Calif. (April 2, 2026) – Justin Bell, a British second-generation World Champion race-car driver, TV and web host, and the son of this year’s honoree, will host the RRDC Evening with Derek Bell MBE presented by Firestone on April 16, 2026, at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. This is the RRDC’s 16th banquet honoring auto racing’s most influential leaders.
In a career that has spanned 25 years, Justin won the 1997 FIA GT World Championship, the GT-2 Class at the 1998 24 Hours of Le Mans, and scored numerous victories and podium finishes in many forms of the sport. He also shared the podium with his dad at Le Mans in 1995, finishing third overall in a McLaren F1 GTR.
Justin Bell image courtesy of Justin Bell
As a media personality, he has worked as a broadcaster for Speed, Fox, NBC and on various auction shows. Justin was also the driving coach on the Jay Leno Show on NBC, and, as a partner in Torque Media Group, co-hosts the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
Working with such brands as McLaren, Genesis, Ferrari, Jaguar Land Rover and others, Justin is the face of multiple branded content campaigns. His streaming show, “Life With Legends,” is his passion project, and he has a partnership with The Wynn, Las Vegas on “Drive to Wynn!” In a studio in the casino, Justin hosts a weekly show about Formula One.
“I am excited and honored to introduce my father at the RRDC dinner in Long Beach,” said Justin. “We have a unique relationship, having raced at Le Mans twice together with a podium in the 1995 race. But, more importantly, he has been the best role model for me in my life, and I am incredibly proud of him as a racer and a man. I know it will be a wonderful evening.”
Jim Michaelian image courtesy of Grand Prix Association of Long Beach
During the Evening with Derek Bell MBE, the RRDC will also recognize the long career of RRDC member Jim Michaelian, who passed away on March 21, 2026.
RRDC President Bobby Rahal recently issued this statement: “The RRDC and motorsports have lost Jim Michaelian, the driving force behind the huge success of the Grand Prix of Long Beach. Jim was there from the beginning, serving as the organization’s first controller and working with founder Chris Pook to launch the inaugural Formula 5000 race in September 1975.
“Upon assuming the role of President and CEO in 2001, Jim continued to build the event into one of the most important motorsports events in the world.
“Jim was a passionate believer in what Long Beach became and in motor racing in general. And, equally so as a driver. Jim’s love for the sport knew no bounds, and worldwide motorsports benefitted from his participation.
“Our deepest sympathies and prayers are with his wife Mary and their family.”
This year’s gala will be held at the Westin Long Beach Hotel at 333 E. Ocean Blvd., on Thursday, April 16, in advance of the 51st Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, the fifth race of the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES. It will honor Derek Bell MBE, whose racing career is one of the most successful, diverse and wide-ranging of any British racing driver.
Proceeds of the dinner will benefit The Mark Donohue Foundation, which supports the RRDC’s SAFEisFAST initiative. Tickets may be purchased on the RRDC web site https://rrdc.org/events/. All are welcome. This event is expected to sell out, so early reservations are recommended.
Jim Michaelian
JIM MICHAELIAN PASSES:
THOUGHTS FROM RRDC PRESIDENT, BOBBY RAHAL
The RRDC and motorsports have lost Jim Michaelian, the driving force behind the huge success of the Long Beach Grand Prix.
Jim was there from the beginning, serving as the organization’s first controller and working with founder Chris Pook to launch the inaugural Formula 5000 race in September 1975.
Upon assuming the role of President and CEO in 2001, Jim continued to build the event into one of the most important motorsports events in the world.
Jim was a passionate believer in what Long Beach became and in motor racing in general.
And equally so as a driver. Jim’s love for the sport knew no bounds, and worldwide motorsports benefitted from his participation.
Our deepest sympathies and prayers are with his wife Mary Michaelian and their family on Jim’s passing.
Godspeed, Jim.
photo courtesy, dailysportscar.com
Yaamava’ Resort & Casino and SEMA/PRI to Host RRDC Reception at LBGP
Yaamava’ Resort & Casino and SEMA/PRI to Host Reception at RRDC Evening with Derek Bell MBE Presented by Firestone in Long Beach
April 16, 2026
Tickets to the Evening with Derek Bell MBE still available
LONG BEACH, Calif. (March 19, 2026) – Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel and SEMA/Performance Racing Industry will support the reception at the RRDC Evening with Derek Bell MBE presented by Firestone on April 16, 2026, at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. This is the RRDC’s 16th banquet honoring auto racing’s most influential leaders.
Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, an elite entertainment destination in Southern California, offers premium casino gaming, live performances from iconic artists, luxury resort accommodations, award-winning dining, and a world-class spa.
SEMA and PRI are the leading organizations advocating for the automotive aftermarket industry, as well as the nation’s 70 million automotive enthusiasts.
“We are pleased to have Yaamava’ Resort & Casino and SEMA/PRI returning this year to sponsor the reception at the RRDC Evening with Derek Bell MBE presented by Firestone,” said RRDC president Bobby Rahal. “Their support will help benefit the RRDC’s longtime initiatives, and we are grateful for their support.”
This year’s gala will be held at the Westin Long Beach Hotel at 333 E. Ocean Blvd., ont Thursday, April 16, in advance of the 51st Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, the fifth race of the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES. It will honor Derek Bell MBE, whose racing career is one of the most successful, diverse and wide-ranging of any British racing driver.
Proceeds of the dinner will benefit The Mark Donohue Foundation, which supports the RRDC’s SAFEisFAST initiative. Tickets may be purchased on the RRDC web site https://rrdc.org/events/. All are welcome. This event is expected to sell out, so early reservations are recommended.
About Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel:
Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel is the only AAA Five-Diamond casino resort and is ranked among the best resorts in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, featuring a Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel with luxe suites, an elevated pool deck, a Forbes Five-Star spa, and a state-of-the-art theater. Recently named the 2025 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Award for Best Casino Outside of Las Vegas, Best Casino Restaurant for its Pines Modern Steakhouse, and Best Casino Hotel as well as Best Native American Casino and Best Overall Casino Outside of Las Vegas by the Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards, Yaamava’ is located just 70 miles from downtown Los Angeles near Highland, CA. The casino has more than 7,500 slots, five high-limit gaming rooms, luxury retail shops, a wide variety of award-winning dining options, and more than a dozen bars and lounges, including a premiere sports bar, The 909 Food Hall, and the new fast-casual dining and immersive entertainment venue, bEATS. The San Manuel Entertainment Authority owns and operates Yaamava’ Resort & Casino. For more information, visit www.yaamava.com or follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Threads and X (formally known as Twitter).
About SEMA:
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) serves as a leading voice for the worldwide car culture, representing over 7,000 member companies that create, buy, sell, and use specialty-automotive parts that make vehicles more unique, attractive, convenient, safer, fun, and even like new again. Business member benefits include product development resources, market research, networking, education, legislative advocacy and more. The Association organizes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and actively supports the career and business opportunities that the aftermarket generates. The industry contributes nearly $337 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy, supports 1.3 million jobs nationally, and generates nearly $53 billion in parts sales annually. For more information, visit www.sema.org.
About PERFORMANCE RACING INDUSTRY:
Performance Racing Industry fuels the passion for motorsports by building, promoting, and protecting the worldwide racing community. PRI supports the interests of racers, enthusiasts, builders, tracks, sanctioning bodies and businesses through legislative action and advocacy, its monthly business magazine Performance Racing Industry, and the world’s premier motorsports trade show, the PRI Trade Show. PRI also supports businesses by providing market research, education and best practices in motorsports business and racing technology. For more information, visit PerformanceRacing.com.
About the RRDC:
The Road Racing Drivers Club was formed in 1952 as a way to give champion drivers a say in their sport, particularly in the areas of safety, and has evolved to serve the future of road racing by mentoring new drivers on both amateur and professional levels. The Club’s membership includes leading industry professionals, race officials and motorsports journalists, in addition to prominent racing names.
In 2011, the RRDC launched a free on-line training seminar – www.SAFEisFAST.com – featuring RRDC members and other industry experts in high-quality videos covering subjects from physical and mental preparation to driving techniques, driver safety to car setup and sponsorship. The videos are updated regularly. Each week, a professional from the world of motor racing answers readers’ questions on the site in a feature called ‘Ask a Pro.’ Bobby Rahal is President, John Fergus is Vice President/Treasurer and John Clagett is Secretary. The RRDC presents three annual awards: the Phil Hill Award, the Mark Donohue Award, and the Bob Akin Award. Membership in the RRDC is by invitation only. Additional information on the organization may be found at www.rrdc.org.
Contact: Judy Stropus, 203-243-2438; jvstropus@gmail.com
Bob Tullius Passes
STATEMENT FROM RRDC PRESIDENT BOBBY RAHAL ON THE PASSING OF BOB TULLIUS:
Bob Tullius
1930-2026
“All of us at the Road Racing Drivers Club are saddened at the passing of one of its icons and heroes, Robert (Bob) Tullius.
“After graduating high school, Tullius served in the United States Air Force, where he quarterbacked the Chanute Air Force Base football team until a leg injury ended his playing career. But Bob brought the discipline of his athletic career to amateur motorsports with the founding of Group 44.
“Group 44 and Bob brought a professionalism to amateur racing that had yet to exist and by doing so became one of the most dominant teams in both the amateur and professional sides of the sport.
“Although he raced many different types of cars throughout his career, Bob was forever tied to his relationship with British Leyland and Jaguar cars, achieving many SCCA National Championships and overall victories.
“He was a proud member of the RRDC. We offer our deepest sympathies to Bob’s family.
“Godspeed, Bob Tullius.”
Bobby Rahal
President
Road Racing Drivers Club
TR4 photo: Clarke Walker
Jaguar XJS photo: Petrolicious
Jaguar XJR-5 prototype at the 2024 HSR Daytona Classic 24; Photo: Paul Woodbury
Brabham takes over full-time Chris Dyson Racing Trans Am seat
Brabham takes over full-time Chris Dyson Racing Trans Am seat; Dyson to drive part-time second entry
Matthew Brabham will take over Chris Dyson Racing’s No.16 Gym Weed Ford Mustang for all events on the Trans Am by Pirelli 2026 calendar. Chris Dyson, a three-time series champion whose 29 victories place him second on the all-time Trans Am winners list, will drive a second Gym Weed entry as his schedule permits.
“I’ve known for a couple of years that at some point my business responsibilities would mean I wouldn’t be able to justify the time a full-season commitment demands,” Dyson said. “But the team deserves that level of effort behind the wheel. Matty will be the team’s primary driver and will do all the races. I will drive the second car for those races that mesh with the rest of my schedule. We have the capability of winning every race on the schedule, and that’s the goal.”
Brabham, who has raced for CD Racing on an as-needed basis since 2021, expressed optimism for the upcoming season.
“First, I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity Chris and the Dyson family have presented me,” Brabham said. “It’s an honor, as I know just how good the team is. I know they will give me a potentially race-winning car every weekend. I also know that for those races where we have two entries I can expect a tough race with Chris.”
Brabham has raced 14 times for CD Racing, winning eight times, including on his debut with the team in 2021 when he substituted for Dyson in the season finale at COTA.
“Matty has always been there when we needed him” Dyson said. “He’s a championship-caliber driver and I’m pleased that CD Racing is providing him with the opportunity to bring our team its fourth Trans Am title, and his first.”
Article courtesy racer.com
SAFE IS FAST!
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SAFE IS FAST
OVERTAKING SECRETS THAT DRS MADE YOU FORGET
Fellow racers,
Luxuries like DRS and Push-To-Pass may come at the highest level of single-seater racing, but through the majority of your junior career you’ll need to do it the old fashioned way.
This video teaches you the fundamentals of setting up an overtake and relying on your talent rather than the push of a button.
This video features two ex-Formula 1 drivers in Kevin Magnussen and IndyCar racer Romain Grosjean, World Endurance champions Klaus Bachler and Ferdinand Habsburg, as well as IndyCar star Colton Herta and NASCAR sensation Connor Zilisch.
Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com
Jason Miller Presented with Mark Donohue Award by Road Racing Drivers Club
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Ford’s Jim Farley is RRDC’s 2025 Bob Akin Award Winner
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (January 22, 2026) – Jim Farley, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ford Motor Company and a member of Ford’s board of directors, was named the 2025 recipient of the RRDC Bob Akin Award. He was honored at the annual Road Racing Drivers Club members’ dinner on January 21, prior to the running of the 64th Rolex 24 At Daytona, the season opener of the 2026 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
Each recipient of this honor, considered the top prize in motorsports for amateur, vintage/historic or semi-professional drivers, is selected by Akin’s son Bobby, RRDC members Brian Redman and Judy Stropus, and approved by RRDC president Bobby Rahal.
The distinctive trophy was conceived by the RRDC in 2003 to honor the memory of longtime RRDC member and past president Bob Akin, who lost his life following a testing accident in 2002.
It was designed by Steuben Glass in Corning, New York, and is given to a driver who best exemplifies the extraordinary qualities and characteristics that Akin represented, including a passion for motorsports and automobiles, a high level of sportsmanship and fair play, and who has contributed to the sport of motor racing and the community at large.
The primary award, etched with the names of the recipients, is displayed at the International Motor Racing Research Center in Watkins Glen, New York. Each honoree receives a smaller replica.
Jim Farley (second from right) receives the 2025 RRDC Bob Akin Award rom Bobby Rahal, Brian Redman, Bobby Akin and Judy Stropus. (Brian Cleary image)
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Alwin Springer Earns RRDC’s 2025 Phil Hill Award
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (January 22, 2026) – Alwin Springer, whose name is synonymous with Porsche’s decades-long racing heritage, was honored by the Road Racing Drivers Club with the 2025 Phil Hill Award. The 2019 award recipient, RRDC President Bobby Rahal, made the presentation at the annual RRDC members’ dinner on January 21 prior to the 64th running of the Rolex 24 At Daytona, the season opener of the 2026 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
The Phil Hill Award has been presented annually since 1993 to the person who the RRDC feels has rendered outstanding service to road racing. The recipient may be a driver, entrant, an outstanding member of a sanctioning body or has contributed highly to the legacy of the sport.
It is named in honor of America’s first Formula 1 World Champion (in 1961), and is not only a tribute to his masterful accomplishments on the race track, it also recognizes his contributions as a great ambassador for the sport. Hill passed away in 2008.
Alwin Springer, left, receives the RRDC Phil Hill Award from RRDC president Bobby Rahal.
(Brian Cleary image)
Today, German-born Alwin Springer, in his semi-retirement, lists his “occupation” as “consultant, Porsche Motorsport North America (PMNA), Historic Department,” which is the culmination of his longtime work with Porsche and its race teams since 1965, when he was first a technician at VW/Porsche Canada in Toronto following tech school graduation.
He soon took a job as chief technician at Vasek Polak Racing in Hermosa Beach, California, fielding a variety of Porsche models in club racing events and a normally-aspirated 917 and a turbo 917 in the 1971-73 Can-Am Series.
By 1975 his expertise with Porsches helped him launch ANDIAL Road & Racing in Costa Mesa, California, with partners Arnold Wagner and Dieter Inzenhofer. The trio established ANDIAL as the leading USA independent shop for Porsche street cars and the most successful racing engine-rebuilding facility. ANDIAL-prepared engines have won numerous long-distance races and IMSA championships from 1976-1996.
Springer and ANDIAL achieved success with such teams as Gunnar Racing, Preston Henn’s Swap Shop, Al Holbert Racing, Bayside Racing, Dauer Racing, B.F. Goodrich Racing, Bob Akin Racing, A.J. Foyt Racing, Brun Racing and Dyson Racing, which dominated IMSA competition from 1984-89.
In 1989, until 1996, he became general manager for PMNA in Santa Ana, California, having transferred his ANDIAL shares to his partners. In 1997 he was named President and CEO of PMNA in Santa Ana, and in 2004 he took on the position of consultant to PMNA in the Rules and Regulations and Historic Departments.
From 2022-25, he continued as a consultant to Porsche AG in Weissach, Germany, on the Porsche Penske 963 IMSA program.
His history with Porsche is clearly legendary.
Alwin Springer image courtesy of Porsche Motorsport
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SCCA HOF
SCCA Hall of Fame
The Sports Car Club of America™ has unveiled the prestigious group of motorsports greats who will enter the SCCA® Hall of Fame in 2026, with George Bovis, John Doonan, Don Knowles, Frank Schultheis, and Jerry Wannarka honored for their on- and off-track contributions.
Two of the five, Don Knowles and John Doonan, are also RRDC members.
All five will officially join the SCCA Hall of Fame during the 2026 SCCA Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, held online on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, as part of the 2026 SCCA National Convention.
The presentation will be streamed on SCCA’s YouTube channel, with members and non-members alike encouraged to view the ceremony.
For those who are not familiar with John’s and Don’s SCCA acivities read on:
John Doonan
A true life-long SCCA member, John Doonan began his SCCA involvement as a June Sprints® spectator at six months old. And though he obtained his competition license, Doonan has been a significant figure in the business side of motorsports. Doonan joined Mazda as Midwest Advertising Manager in 2003, earning the Director of Mazda Motorsports title in 2011. Under Doonan, the grassroots program thrived, providing contingency, parts and technical support for racers at all levels of SCCA. A ladder program launched the careers of multiple SCCA racers who would not have otherwise had the funding to participate at the highest level. Named IMSA President in late 2019, Doonan solidified and formalized a partnership between IMSA and SCCA to promote all aspects of road racing. Doonan remains an active SCCA member, frequently attending events including the SCCA Runoffs, and occasionally working on the Flagging & Communications team while there.
Don Knowles
Don Knowles’ Hall of Fame resume spans multiple frontiers. A road racer since 1972, Knowles won six SCCA Runoffs® National Championships and an SCCA Pro Racing championship. His Runoffs titles demonstrated his sustained excellence, spanning a record 34 years between his first and last title. He has competed successfully in SCCA autocross, ice racing, and helped set an FIA world endurance record as a member of the ZR-1 Corvette team. Off track, Knowles has served as a driving instructor, was an instrumental member of the Showroom Stock Advisory Committee in the early days of the class, wrote for SCCA’s SportsCar magazine (among others) for many years, and served on the Washington DC Region Board of Directors. A longtime member of the Road Racing Drivers Club, Knowles led the committee to select the Mark Donohue Award winner at the Runoffs. Furthermore, his judgement on various SCCA Hall of Fame committees has rewarded many Club members with recognition through the years.
Paul Pfanner–Racer magazine
PAUL PFANNER–RACER MAGAZINE
You may have heard the pun (I don’t do jokes!) that goes something like this:
A friend (or auto industry connection): I heard you’re retiring.
You: Yes, that’s true . . . I just got a new set of Pirellis (or Goodyears or Michelins or Firestones or . . . ).
Well . . . that also applies to Paul Pfanner, assuming, of course, you are a Pfanner Paul.
Paul is the founder, President and Executive Publisher of RACER magazine and RACER.com and is also the CEO of the Racer Studio creative services and branded content agency.
Pfanner founded Racer magazine way back in 1992, and made it one of the longest-standing and most respected publications in motorsports media that covers Formula 1, IndyCar, and sports cars. It’s also known for its high-quality journalism and photography. I can personally attest to that bit about “high quality photography” as one of Racer’s co-founders is Jeff Zwart who also a had a bit of a history at Road & Track, an automotive publication I am more than a little familiar with.
“Since it was founded in 1992, RACER magazine has brought together the world’s leading motorsports journalists and photographers to provide its readers with an insider’s perspective on racing’s intoxicating blend of people, passion, speed and technology.”
If you haven’t heard, Paul’s leaving Racer. But he isn’t . . . Well, yes and no.
The whole story, or part of the whole story, is that Paul will remain a co-owner of Racer, but will turn over every day operations to his staff.
And Paul? He is expanding his horizons to “creative and media consulting in the racing space.”
He will no longer have a RACER email address so if you want to reach him, do so via text, or messenger on Facebook.
Congrats and God speed. I can’t wait to read the first page in the next chapter of Paul’s incredible career in the racing biz.–John Dinkel
BAT 2026 Indy 500 VIP Experience Will Benefit The Mark Donohue Foundation; Bidding Ends Dec 26
Bring a Trailer Offering 2026 Indianapolis 500 VIP Experience to Benefit The Mark Donohue Foundation, which Supports the RRDC’S SAFEisFAST Initiative
LEWIS CENTER, Ohio (December 22, 2025) – Bring a Trailer, a premier online auction platform known for its curated listings, is offering a VIP experience at the 2026 Indianapolis 500 weekend (from May 21 to May 24), which includes a number of unique events courtesy of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing
Bidding is open at https://bringatrailer.com/listing/a-vip-weekend-experience-at-2026-indy-500/ from now until December 26, 2025. Complete details are available on the site.
This experience is offered on behalf of the Road Racing Drivers Club, and the winning bid for this no-reserve auction, including the BaT buyer’s fee, will be donated to The Mark Donohue Foundation, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization created by the RRDC to help further the goals of the SAFEisFASTinitiative, which promotes driver education and safety.
“We at Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing are excited to be able to offer such a unique experience for the Indy 500 fans out there,” said RRDC president Bobby Rahal. “We hope to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for that special bidder, while at the same time helping support a significant RRDC initiative that benefits all racers.
“And, I’m happy to announce that we just added a special race-day perk for the winner: watching the race from my personal third-level private suite overlooking Turn 2.”
The package does not include air or ground transportation to or from Indianapolis, Indiana. Lodging is the responsibility of the winning bidder, and a three-night stay at the J.W.Marriott Downtown Indianapolis has been reserved for optional purchase. The experience is nontransferable and valid only during the 2026 Indy 500 event.
SAFE IS FAST–How to Ace Your Rookie Season
SAFE IS FAST
How to Ace Your Rookie Season
Fellow racers,
As you rise through the junior ranks, you’ll be experiencing a lot of new cars, new teams and new circuits. You’ll spend a lot of time being The Rookie.
Being a rookie doesn’t mean you can’t take the fight to your more experienced rivals. Here’s how to ace your rookie season in ANY category.
For this video, we’re joined by a flurry of Indy NXT champions: Christian Rasmussen, Louis Foster and Dennis Hauger; USF Pro 2000 champion Lochie Hughes as well as Nolan Siegel and Devlin DeFrancesco.
Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com
SAFE IS FAST–Eric Prill On Grassroots Success
SAFE IS FAST
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Four-time Bathurst Winner Allan Moffat Has Died
Four-time Bathurst winner Allan Moffat has died aged 86
One of Australia’s greatest touring car drivers has passed away.
Allan Moffat, a four-time Australian Touring Car champion and four-time Bathurst 500/100 winner, passed away aged 86 in Melbourne on Saturday after a lengthy battle with dementia.
Moffat’s passing was confirmed by his family in a post on his Facebook page.
Moffat was born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, in Canada. When he was a teenager, his family moved to Melbourne, and in his early 20s, he started racing in a Triumph TR3. After a couple of notable results in a Lotus Cortina, and feeling the need for a wider motorsport experience, he moved to the US and spent time with Team Lotus, most notably as a ‘gofer’ for the Indianapolis 500-winning team behind Jim Clark’s 1965 victory.
He would later describe the experience of working with the likes of Colin Chapman and the Wood Brothers as “like going to motor racing university”.
By 1969 he had returned to Australia to join Ford’s production racing squad, where his mechanical empathy and eye for detailed preparation were to prove invaluable. Later that year he returned to the US and found his way into the office of Jacque Passino, who oversaw Ford’s motorsport program. Seven new Trans-Am racers were being built for the 1969 season. Moffat was hoping one of the older, superseded cars might be passed on to him for a good price.
Passino exceeded his expectations and gifted Moffat with one of the new Boss 302 Mustangs under construction at Bud Moore Racing in South Carolina. Moffat and his new weapon returned to Melbourne and, for the next five years, won 78 from 188 races – though ironically never an ATCC title.
Full story at this link:
https://www.autosport.com/supercars/news/four-time-bathurst-winner-allan-moffat-has-died/10778883/
The 6th Annual RACE INDUSTRY WEEK
The 6th Annual RACE INDUSTRY WEEK
December 1-4, 2025
Join EPARTRADE and RACER for four days of LIVE webinars with the world’s top race industry leaders, sanctioning bodies, and promoters—packed with insights, strategies, and trends you won’t want to miss!
No charge to attend. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Hosted by: Brad Gillie of SiriusXM, Ch. 90, Late Shift; Paul Pfanner, Laurence Foster, Chris Medland, David Malsher-Lopez, Dominik Wilde, George Tamayo, Mark Glendenning and Taro Koki of RACER; Joe Castello of WFO Radio; Judy Kean and Francisque Savinien of EPARTRADE.
Speakers include Kyle Larson, 2025 and 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Champion; Tony Stewart, 3-Time NASCAR Cup Series Champion, Owner of Tony Stewart Racing and Top Fuel NHRA Winner; Leah Pruett, NHRA Star and 12-time Top Fuel Event Winner; Steve O’Donnell, President of NASCAR; Doug Boles, President of INDYCAR & Indianapolis Motor Speedway; Mike Hull, Managing Director, Chip Ganassi Racing; Frederic Lequien, CEO, FIA WEC (World Endurance Championship); John Doonan, President of IMSA; Jeff Dodds, CEO of Formula E; Jim Campbell, Vice President of GM Performance & Motorsports; Mark Rushbrook, Global Director, Ford Racing; Tyler Gibbs, President of Toyota Racing Development USA; Kelvin Fu, Vice President, Honda Racing Corporation USA; Chris Rice, CEO, Kaulig Racing; Peter Thul, Senior Director Sport, WRC (World Rally Championship); Legends Danny Sullivan, Freddie Spencer & Linda Vaughn; Doug Kalitta, Two-Time NHRA Top Fuel Champion (2023 & 2025); Alan Johnson, Legendary Crew Chief with 14 NHRA Top Fuel Championships; Patrick Long, Former Porsche Factory Driver and President, Luftgekühlt; Kevin Miller, President & CEO, USAC; Ryan Sage, President and co-founder, Formula DRIFT; Brian Carter, CEO, World of Outlaws; Rodi Basso, Founder of the E1 series; Michael Cobb, President and CEO, SCCA (Sports Car Club of America); Jason Dienhart, President and CEO, Global Time Attack and Super Lap Battle; Melissa Eickhoff, CEO, Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC); Andy Lally, President, Trans Am; Richard Freeman, Owner, Elite Motorsports; Formula 1; Gridlife; Mazda; Mint 400 & American Off-Road Racing Championship; SVRA; Crandon International Raceway; MotoGP; NHRA; SCORE International; Performance Racing Industry (PRI); Extreme H; National Auto Sport Association (NASA); America Rally Association (ARA); GP Explorer; Knoxville Raceway; World Racing League (WRL); FOX Entertainment, MotoAmerica and many more….
https://www.epartrade.com/more/onlineraceindustryweek?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2025 – Oct 12&utm_content=2025 – Oct 12+CID_d4a6d7a5565cae2033a11f7c1c6fe2e1&utm_source=Newsletter&utm_term=6th Annual RACE INDUSTRY WEEK
SAFE IS FAST: How To Ace Your Rookie Season
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SAFE IS FAST: How To Be A Pro Driver In 90 Seconds
How To Be A Pro Driver In 90 Seconds
Fellow racers,
Every young racer’s dream is to become a professional driver, but we all know that sheer speed isn’t enough to make that happen.
In this video, we’re joined by IMSA President John Doonan who explains how to become a professional driver in 90 seconds.
Doonan also outlines the IMSA ladder system of various one-make series and gateway endurance championships, which are designed to develop racing talent.
Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com
Penske Entertainment Earns SBJ ‘Best Places to Work in Sports’ Honor
SBJ ‘Best Places to Work in Sports’ Honor
INDIANAPOLIS (Monday, Nov. 24, 2025) – Penske Entertainment has been recognized as one of the “Best Places to Work in Sports” for 2025 by “Sports Business Journal.”
The prestigious distinction is awarded annually to sports and entertainment organizations displaying unwavering and innovative commitment to their employees. Selections are informed by a comprehensive survey that measures employee satisfaction and cultural progress.
“This recognition is extra special because it’s informed by direct insights and feedback from staff – it truly reflects the voice of our team,” said Penske Entertainment Chief Talent Office Kristin Weeden. “At Penske Entertainment, we’re building a culture that listens, takes action and is inclusive. We know this creates an environment that rewards hard work, drives innovation and ultimately helps us best serve our fans at INDYCAR and Indianapolis Motor Speedway with world-class events.”
In recent years, Penske Entertainment has enhanced decision making by creating clear channels for input and giving team members meaningful opportunities to influence workplace initiatives. The organization has deepened its investment in employees by rolling out enhanced parental leave, launching a tuition assistance benefit and building partnerships that support continuous learning and development.
The SBJ’s full list of “Best Places to Work in Sports” was released today and can be viewed here.
Penske Entertainment Corp., a subsidiary of Penske Corporation, is home to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and IMS Productions. Indianapolis Motor Speedway has hosted the world’s largest single-day sporting event – the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race – for more than 100 years. The NTT INDYCAR SERIES continues to be the premier open-wheel racing series in North America and is the most competitive championship in the world. IMS Productions is a leading video services and production company.
“Live with Legends”
| OUR NEXT
“LIVE WITH LEGENDS” IS HERE Take your team to the next level! Join us for “Live with Legends: Building Successful Teams,” our FREE webinar featuring our Hall of Fame-inducted legends breaking down critical components of this important topic. Join Mark McMillin of McMillin Racing, Tom Morris of PPI/Toyota factory off-road race team, short course legend Scott Taylor, and PPI Founder Cal Wells III for their experienced, proven perspective. Online Webinar | Monday, December 8, 2025 FREE and open to the public. 12PM PST / 3PM EST The 75-minute event will include stories, strategies, tips, and 15 minutes of Q&A. Whether you’re leading a crew, managing a team, or just want to up your leadership game and success rate — this session’s for you. |
| REGISTER NOW |
https://bit.ly/BuildingSuccessfulTeams
RRDC Evening with Derek Bell
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Al Speyer Passes
Al Speyer, who helped lead Firestone’s triumphant return to open-wheel racing in the mid-1990s and became an influential motorsports executive during a pivotal period in INDYCAR history, died Oct. 27 in Hendersonville, Tennessee. He was 73.
Speyer’s nearly 39-year career with Bridgestone Americas featured not only Firestone’s return to INDYCAR but the assurance it remained there as the exclusive tire supplier.
When Speyer joined Firestone in May 1974, the brand that won the first Indianapolis 500 in 1911 was nearing an exit from the sport. A decade later, Speyer was part of the launch of the Firehawk Racing program in 1984 and the introduction of Firestone Indy Lights (now INDY NXT by Firestone) in 1990.
These initiatives marked pivotal steps toward Firestone’s re-entry into full-time INDYCAR SERIES competition in 1995 and the brand’s celebrated return to Indianapolis Motor Speedway. In 1996, Buddy Lazier gave Firestone its first “500” victory in 25 years.
Please visit: https://www.indycar.com/news/2025/10/10-30-speyer-obit
for a more complete biography on Al Speyer’s incredible career.
Les Unger, Toyota Motorsports Manager, Passes
Les Unger, long-time manager of American motorsport programs for Toyota, passed away last week.
Unger spearheaded the Japanese auto manufacturers involvement in U.S. racing, starting with sponsorship of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, and was instrumental in establishing the popular Toyota Pro/Celebrity race at the famed California street circuit. As National Motorsports Manager at Toyota Motor Sales USA from 1984-2014, Unger directed the company’s involvement in IndyCar, IMSA, NASCAR and NHRA competition, as well as USAC, NORRA and SCORE off-road programs,
“We join the entire Toyota and motorsport community in mourning the loss of Toyota motorsports pioneer Les Unger,” Toyota Gazoo Racing said in a statement. “Les was a passionate, innovative leader of Toyota’s motorsports efforts for decades.
“He guided our successful early racing involvement in many series, including IndyCar, IMSA, off-road racing and the Toyota Atlantic Series, while later supporting our entrance into NASCAR as the national motorsports manager.
Les also loved to give back, with one of his biggest passions being the annual Pro/Celebrity race at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach.
“After retiring in 2014, Les continued to be a big fan and supporter of Toyota’s motorsports efforts. Les’ guidance, perseverance and dedication to Toyota was second-to-none, and we extend our condolences to the entire Unger family. We will truly miss Les cheering us on.”
E. Charbonneau // Getty Images
More on Les can be found in the links that follow.
https://www.autoweek.com/racing/nascar/a69065989/nascar-les-unger-obit/
Nine New Members Welcomed Into IMSA Hall of Fame
At last Sunday’s WeatherTech Night of Champions event in Atlanta, IMSA officially welcomed nine new members into the IMSA Hall of Fame.
Another combination of legendary cars, drivers, and architects of North American sports car racing.
Six were people and three were cars. And one of the nine was in both categories.
How can this be????
Just remember . . . whatever Lola wants, Lola gets!
Honoring Lyn St. James
2025 Spirit of Competition Award Honoring Lyn St. James
Saturday, October 18 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Join us for a daytime celebration at the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum as we present the 2025 Spirit of Competition Award to trailblazing racer, author, mentor, and advocate Lyn St. James.
For more than fifty years Lyn has competed at the highest levels of motorsport. She is a seven time Indianapolis 500 starter and earned Rookie of the Year honors in 1992, becoming the first woman to claim that distinction. Her résumé includes victories at the Rolex 24 at Daytona, the 12 Hours of Sebring, Watkins Glen, Road America, and the Nürburgring. She has twice taken on the 24 Hours of Le Mans, raced in IMSA, Trans Am, and SCCA, and set twenty one national and international closed-course speed records, some surpassing 225 mph.
Off the track Lyn co founded and leads Women in Motorsports North America, previously headed the Women’s Sports Foundation, and serves on the boards of ACCUS, IndyCar, and NASCAR appeals commissions. She is a sought-after speaker on teamwork, performance, and passion, and the author of An Incredible Journey and Oh By the Way.
Recognized among Sports Illustrated’s Top 100 Female Athletes of the Twentieth Century, Lyn is an inductee of the Automotive Hall of Fame, the National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame, the Sebring Hall of Fame, and other esteemed institutions. Her achievements have reshaped modern motorsport and continue to inspire future competitors.
This special daytime event features a personal appearance by Lyn, a showcase of cars on display as part of our Street Cred exhibition, and a salute to the enduring values that define the Spirit of Competition: courage, mastery, and unwavering determination.
Robert Clarke Passes
Robert Clarke, founder of Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US) when it was known initially as Honda Performance Development (HPD), passed away at age 75.
Clarke had been at the helm of HPD from its 1993 founding, where he established the new Honda racing subsidiary in Santa Clarita, until January 2008 where he shifted into a new executive advisory role at HPD until his retirement.
His work laid the groundwork for a multitude of Honda Racing race cars, including with the Acura brand in North American sports car racing. The Acura American Le Mans Series program featured the Acura LM V8, which was HPD’s first-ever and Honda’s first racing engine produced outside of Honda R&D Japan. The three Acura-powered teams finished in first, second and fourth positions in the ALMS Le Mans Prototype 2 (LMP2) class at the 2007 Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring.
David Salters, HRC US President, noted Clarke’s influence on his tenure and paid tribute to his predecessor:
“I would like to give our thoughts and prayers to Robert Clarke and his family, Robert sadly passed away this weekend.
“Robert was a driving force at Honda Performance Development—he was literally badge #1 at HPD in 1993 and ultimately served as the third president of the organization. He and all of our other magnificent presidents built what is now Honda Racing Corporation USA into a world class racing organization. He is one of the giants whose shoulders we stand on today as HRC US.”
Corvette 2025 Hall of Fame
The 2025 Corvette Hall of Fame inductees are: Kim Baker in the Racing category, Chuck Jordan in the GM/Chevrolet category, and the team of Charley and Jim Robertson in the Enthusiast category. These inductees were announced by the National Corvette Museum during its 31st Anniversary Celebration on September 2, 2025, recognizing their significant contributions to the Corvette’s history and legacy.
Baker was introduced by Tony DeLorenzo, one half of the Owens Corning Corvette duo, which included Jerry Thompson, whose Corvettes dominated SCCA and International road racing during the 1960s and 1970s.
Bakeracing, whose sponsors included General Motors (GM) and Corvette Engineering, Goodyear Tires, Redline Oil, Bilstein and Road & Track, dominated Corvette racing in the 1980s into the 2000s.
John Bornholdt Passes
RRDC member, John William Bornholdt, age 97, died Wednesday at 08/20/2025, 9:03PM. In Huntingdon, PA.
John was an official in many auto racing positions beginning in 1955. He was a Chairman of the Stewards at some of the first American professional road racing series, the United States Road Racing Championship and later for the CanAm and TransAm series. He was Chief Steward for single seater CanAm, and for 17 years, Formula Atlantic. From 1970 to 1991 he was the American steward for FIA Formula 1 World Championship races, and retired as a Judge for CART and ChampCar in 2006. He was the founding Regional Executive (president) of the South Jersey Region of the Sports Car Club of America in 1958. He was an official in SCCA club racing: North East Division Executive Steward, national Director of Stewards, chairman of Courts of Appeal. He officiated at hundreds of club races. Along the way he garnered several awards including the Sports Car Club of America’s Woolff Barnato Trophy and was elected into their Hall of Fame in 2006. He is Emeritus member of their Hall of Fame nominating committee.
SAFE IS FAST
SAFE IS FAST WELCOMES DARREN LAW
Fellow racers,
We are delighted to welcome Darren Law as SAFEisFast’s new Executive Director, a leading role in providing free championship-winning advice to the next generation of aspiring racing drivers.
Darren takes over from Jim Mullen, who has served as Executive Director and Creative Director since SAFEisFast’s inception in 2010, ushering in a new era for the program.
As a winner of the Rolex 24 at Daytona alongside David Donohue, Antonio Garcia and Buddy Rice in 2009, we look forward to benefitting from Darren’s driving and technical expertise as well as his driver development and management abilities acquired since becoming Flying Lizard Motorsports Team Manager in 2014, and now Co-Owner. Under his guidance, the Arizona-based outfit has won nine teams’ and nine drivers’ titles in GT World Challenge America, GT America, Pirelli GT4 America and Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America.
“For years I’ve seen the work that SAFEisFast and the RRDC have done to help young drivers develop the skills they need to make it in motorsport and I’m immensely excited to become a part of that mission,” said Darren Law, SAFEisFast Executive Director. “I look forward to continuing Jim’s creative vision for the program and leading it into this new era.”
Bobby Rahal, RRDC President, added: “We at the RRDC are confident that Darren Law will continue the excellent work that SAFEisFast has accomplished since its introduction by the RRDC in 2010. Darren’s talent, racing experience and savvy business sense are major assets to this important program and will only benefit SAFEisFast’s ongoing mission.”
Monterey IROC Racing
See IROC Cars and Stars at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion
A raucous field of 24 IROC race cars will join the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for the first time, Aug. 13-16.
This group is stacked with racing legends from a variety of disciplines, including NASCAR legends Jeff Gordon, Kurt Busch, Mark Martin, Bill Elliott, Ken Schrader and Bobby Labonte, as well as Zak Brown, Danny Sullivan, Scott Pruett and many more. Al Unser Jr. will serve as Grand Marshal of the IROC Class.
The cars also bring significant star power to this group, as Ray Evernham, co-owner of IROC, has helped assemble an impressive field representing all seven generations of IROC cars. The 2025 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion will mark the first time in history that all seven generations of IROC cars will be displayed together in one place.
Alongside an official celebration of the 75th anniversary of Formula 1, including more than 50 rarely seen historic and modern F1 cars on and off track, this is a can’t-miss event.
| Get Your Tickets |
| Event Schedule |
Legends on a Legend
Racing Celebrities Hobbs, Varsha and Punch to Host IMRRC Argetsinger Award Gala Honoring Brian Redman at Corning Museum of Glass on September 4, 2025.
Dinner open to public; tickets still available
WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (August 5, 2025) – Motorsports icons David Hobbs, Bob Varsha and Dr. Jerry Punch will host the International Motor Racing Research Center’s 11th annual gala, presented by Sahlen’s, honoring racing legend Brian Redman on September 4, at the Corning (N.Y) Museum of Glass.
The IMRRC, a research and archival library focused on the history of all types of racing and all race tracks worldwide, will present Redman with its annual Cameron R. Argetsinger Award for Outstanding Contributions to Motorsports.
The gala will be held in advance of the SVRA 2025 Mission Foods Watkins Glen Speedtour, September 5-7, at Watkins Glen International, and the Watkins Glen Grand Prix Festival on September 5.
It is open to the public, with tickets available for purchase at https://www.racingarchives.org/support-the-imrrc/cameron-r-argetsinger-award/.
Dr. “Doc” Jerry Punch has been the M.C. of the Argetsinger Award gala since the inaugural dinner honoring Chip Ganassi in 2014. He will be joined on stage by racing-champion-turned-broadcaster Hobbs and veteran TV commentator Varsha as the latter pair conduct the popular Q&A with the evening’s honoree.
Full bios on Redman, Hobbs, Varsha and Punch may be found HERE.
The dinner serves as a key fundraiser for the IMRRC, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which opened in 1999.
RRDC Members on the Move
David Hobbs Returns to Lime Rock Park
Racing legend David Hobbs returns to Lime Rock Park this Labor Day weekend as Guest of Honor at Historic Festival 43. His iconic 1974 Carling Black Label McLaren IndyCar will be on display, and fans will have the rare chance to meet Hobbs in person and get his autograph.
Rob Dyson Named Grand Marshal of Historic Festival 43
Rob Dyson interviewed by Sam Posey
Rob Dyson, a champion team owner and lifelong supporter of American road racing, returns to Lime Rock Park, his home track, as Grand Marshal of Historic Festival 43. From Trans Am to IMSA, Dyson Racing’s legacy runs deep. Meet Rob, see cars from his collection, and hear stories from an icon.
Honoring Kas Kastner: The Kastner Cup Comes to Lime Rock
The Kastner Cup—one of vintage racing’s most celebrated all-Triumph events—is coming to the Historic Festival for the very first time. Watch a 33-car grid of Spitfires, TRs, and GT6s battle it out in honor of Triumph legend R.W. “Kas” Kastner. It’s a can’t-miss moment for British sports car fans.
Spend an Afternoon with Skip Barber at the Hotchkiss Library
On Sunday, August 10 at 4 PM, the Hotchkiss Library of Sharon welcomes Lime Rock Park founder Skip Barber for a lively Q&A about the track he built, the legends who raced there, and the community it helped shape. Moderated by David Moore, the conversation will cover everything from Lime Rock’s early days to what’s next for this beloved road racing circuit.
More Information
Lime Rock Park | 860.435.5000 | limerock.com
RRDC LEGENDS: Scott Pruett, Master Of The Rolex 24
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“POWER UNLEASHED: Trailblazers Who Energised Engines with Supercharging and Turbocharging,” by RRDC Member Karl Ludvigsen
LONDON (July 11, 2025) – “POWER UNLEASHED: Trailblazers Who Energised Engines with Supercharging and Turbocharging,” by RRDC member, Karl Ludvigsen, is NOW available in the U.S.
This three-volume landmark work by the award-winning author takes the reader on the roller-coaster ride of supercharging and turbocharging throughout automotive and aviation history.
Supercharging in all its forms is the most exciting feature ever created to go under the bonnet of a motor car. Blowers were rare yet highly desirable devices in their early heyday of the 1920s and ’30s, an era in which compressors graced supremely glamorous and race-winning cars. They also won respect from aviators eager to exploit high altitudes and this led to prolific use of forced induction in the air in World War II and brought forth many of the engineering geniuses who populate the pages of this scholarly work.
Having seemed abandoned on land, supercharging found new acolytes who perfected blowers for road and track. They rescued the turbocharger to open new avenues for high-pressure boosting in the 1970s and ’80s. Into the 21st century turbocharging has found its way into more and more cars to enhance both performance and fuel efficiency.
Key content:
• Volume 1, “Rushing toward the racing zenith, 1890s to 1950s,” begins by introducing the bold pioneers who first won races with blowers in 1910 and then took to the air to gain altitude with supercharging in the Great War.
• Inventive ideas for piston-type blowers, Roots-type, centrifugal, screw-type, vane-type, exhaust-driven turbos and other new compressor technologies.
• How Fiat, Mercedes and Duesenberg vied to be first in racing with blowers in the early 1920s, sparking a world-wide swath of interest in exotic supercharged road and track cars that also embraced the likes of Alfa Romeo, Bentley, MG, Miller, Sunbeam and many more.
• As befits its title, “Wartime boost to forced induction, 1930s to 1970s,” Volume 2’s focus is on the huge strides made in supercharging and turbocharging in World War II by Allied and Axis combatants.
• Post-war, America powered ahead with turbocharging’s proliferation in racing at Indianapolis followed by wider use from the 1970s for passenger cars and racers, most notably Formula One’s 1,500-horsepower projectiles.
• Volume 3, “Turbo triumphs on road and track, 1970s to 2020s,” introduces the many and varied applications of boosting for petrol and diesel engines through to the present day.
• Why and how the 21st century sees sweeping conversion of both road and racing cars to forced induction for higher efficiency and the ultimate in road-burning performance.
• All told this mighty work contains over 3,500 rare and historic images of superchargers and turbochargers along with their designers and the sensational cars and aircraft that have carried their creations.
“Power Unleashed” is a work of astonishing depth and detail. Greatly respected for his ability to communicate information while telling a compelling story, Ludvigsen explores the global saga of supercharging and turbocharging. Complete with reader-friendly technical descriptions and magnificent illustrations, he introduces the fascinating individuals who bet their businesses on boosting. This is a landmark work in the histories of the automobile and airplane.
About the Author:
Karl Ludvigsen is widely known and respected in the automotive world for his research and reporting on all aspects of motoring and motor sports. This has come about through his studies of engineering and industrial design as well as his senior positions with GM, Fiat and Ford and his leadership of a motor-industry management-consulting company. Active for over 70 years as an author and historian, Ludvigsen first studied supercharging applications in 1955 while attending Brooklyn’s Pratt Institute. He has meticulously researched the subject ever since, building upon a landmark piece published by Automobile Quarterly in 1970 entitled “The Origins of Supercharging,” for which he interviewed many pioneers of the art. As author, co-author or editor Ludvigsen has some six dozen books to his credit, among them titles about engine topics such as “The V12 Engine,” “Classic Racing Engines” and “Bentley’s Great Eight.” He has received 73 awards for his high standard of writing and research.
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“POWER UNLEASHED” is available in the U.S. from specialist and online booksellers, as well as on evropublishing.com.