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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.

Check it out!

Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com

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Jason Miller Presented with Mark Donohue Award by Road Racing Drivers Club

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (January 22, 2026) – Jason Miller, winner of the Prototype SCCA® National Championship in 2025, was named the recipient of the Road Racing Drivers Club’s (RRDC) Mark Donohue Award. Miller was honored at the annual RRDC member’s dinner on January 21, 2026, prior to the running of the Rolex 24 At Daytona, the season-opening round of the 2026 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

Selected by members of the RRDC each year since 1971, the award recognizes the driver exhibiting the most outstanding performance at the annual Sports Car Club of America National Championship Runoffs in terms of personal spirit and skill behind the wheel. Originally called the “Outstanding Performance Award,” the honor was later named after Mark Donohue, a former SCCA Champion, an inductee in the SCCA Hall of Fame and past president of the RRDC, following his death in 1975.
From left, Eric Prill, Jason Miller, David Donohue and Calvin Stewart, with the RRDC Mark Donohue Award glass top. (Brian Cleary image)
With 27 SCCA National Championship Runoffs starts to his name, Miller is no stranger to SCCA’s annual winner-take-all event. Coming into the 2025 Runoffs race in October at Road America, Miller qualified his No. 0 Kohler/Millennium/Hoosier Wynnfurst West Kohler 2-Stroke in third, one step back from his qualifying position the year prior. Miller’s 2025 race, however, would yield a different result from his 2024 attempt, where he qualified on the outside pole but finished seventh.

“I knew we had an incredibly fast car – I felt confident that we had a shot to win,” Miller said of his and his team’s pre-Runoffs prep. “Mentally, I was prepared to do whatever it took to make sure the car got to the front row. My crew and I went through the car meticulously to ensure that it was prepared for battle.”

When the green flag flew, he kept to the plan – and when the unexpected happened, he assessed, adapted, and put his head down.

“For me, I was trying to let the car and the tires warm up before I really started to push it,” he said. “I was having a few things in the car in terms of a porpoising issue as well as inconsistency in the brakes, but was able to remedy both with a few adjustments in the cockpit. I focused on the problem and was able to resolve it, and I knew we were on the right track, especially if we received a restart.”

Ultimately the race finished under caution – something he was happy about because, as he explained, “I was in front.”
A group of previous Mark Donohue Award honorees behind this year’s Mark Donohue Award, a wheel from Joey Logano’s NASCAR Ford Mustang, courtesy of Team Penske. From the top row down, from left: Dave Weitzenhof, Jason Ott, Ken Kannard, Eric Prill, Jason Miller, David Donohue, Keith Scharf, Calvin Stewart and Charlie Peter. (Top images courtesy of SCCA; bottom image by Brian Cleary)
With 11 previous top five finishes at the Runoffs, five of which placed him on the podium, Miller’s ability to put his car in a position to win has never been in question. This victory was undeniably the culmination of years of design, engineering, and utter determination.

For this success, Miller was quick to praise his crew. “I had an amazing team that put their heart and souls into making sure that I had a car that I could showcase,” he said. “I did everything I could to make sure that car was in the front row. With a little bit of luck and God on my side, we won.”

It doesn’t hurt that Miller is also a local to Road America, calling nearby Plymouth, Wisconsin, home.

“I probably have had over 70 races at Road America,” he revealed. “Honestly, to win the Runoffs at the best track in the United States in my backyard with all my friends and family watching, it just doesn’t get any better. I am so thankful to the SCCA, the fans, my family, and my wonderful crew.”

Miller found out that he had been selected for the Mark Donohue Award via a phone call from RRDC President Bobby Rahal.

“I was actually in Walmart with my wife when I got the call. She was picking up a TV remote trying to talk to me as I took the call from Bobby, and I signaled to her that I can’t talk right now – she gave me that look,” Miller laughed.

“I was honored to talk to Bobby – it meant a lot. We had a great conversation. He asked if I was related to Jeff Miller, who he had watched for many years racing. I told Bobby that he is my father.

“I am honored to be chosen for the Mark Donohue Award,” he said.

The unique award has a glass top and sits on a race wheel with a historic provenance. RRDC member David Donohue, son of Mark Donohue, presented Miller with the award, which included a wheel donated by Team Penske that was used on Joey Logano’s NASCAR Championship-winning Ford Mustang at the 2024 season finale in Phoenix. Selection for the Mark Donohue award includes an invitation to join the RRDC.

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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)

As Ford’s CEO, Farley is focused on transforming Ford to lead the digital and electric evolution in the automotive industry. Under Farley’s leadership, Ford reorganized its business into three distinct automotive segments: Ford Blue, for iconic gas and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, for breakthrough electric vehicles and the digital platforms and software for Ford’s entire product lineup; and Ford Pro, for work-ready vehicles software, and services that help commercial customers transform their operations.

Jim Farley (Image courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

Prior to joining Ford in 2007, Farley was group vice president and general manager of Lexus and group vice president of the Toyota Division.

Beyond the workplace, he is a collector and racer of vintage vehicles and it is not uncommon to find him on tracks around the world racing his 1965 Ford GT 40, 1966 427 Cobra, or 1978 Lola 298, among others. Farley also hosts DRIVE, a podcast that rekindles America’s love affair with cars, the influence they have in our life and how those experiences drive us to succeed personally and professionally.

In addition to his various roles at Ford, he currently serves on the board of directors of Harley-Davidson and on the external advisory council for the JPMorganChase Security and Resiliency Initiative.

Farley is a graduate of Georgetown University and the Anderson School of Management at the University of California, Los Angeles. He and his wife, Lia, have three children.

 

“There are three basic tenets that make up the Bob Akin Award and our winner truly lives up to all three,” said Bobby Akin as he presented Farley with the award. “First, a passion for motorsports and driving at a high level. Our winner certainly checks that box. He is racing whenever he can. Outside of his day job and family, getting behind the wheel is what drives him.

“Multiple Le Mans Classics, finishing second in a GT40; countless Rolex Reunions; the Spa 6-hour. He recently drove in the Mustang Invitational at Le Mans and is racing here (at Daytona International Speedway) in the HSR event.

“A winner also must have a career outside of racing. I think it’s safe to say our winner has that covered.

“Lastly, and most importantly, the winner needs to be a good human. I have known our winner for about 20 years, and I am proud to call him a friend. No matter how crazy busy he is, or is between trips to the White House, he always has time for his friends and family. A genuinely good guy! Please welcome Jim Farley.”
“It’s incredibly humbling to receive the Bob Akin Award. And, as CEO of Ford, I don’t think there’s a bigger compliment in my career,” said Farley. “It’s a recognition from car people and racers and it’s more personal for me. It’s one of the most meaningful things that’s happened to me in my life. Thank you. Thank you.”

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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

 

“This is an awesome award and it represents something so special in racing,” said Rahal. “To me, Phil Hill was not only a great driver, he was a true gentleman and a great proponent of the sport. He represented motor racing to the world, especially in this country, in such a manner, such a fashion, that is something you had to admire.

“We’ve had a lot of great recipients of the Phil Hill Award over the years, and this year’s honoree is no different,” Rahal added. “I have tremendous respect for Alwin Springer. I met him probably when I first started racing in IMSA with the Turbo Porsches in 1980. Alwin was the guy. If you raced Porsches, Alwin was the guy you really looked to. I’m really proud and really happy that tonight we’re honoring my good friend.”
“It is wonderful to stand here in front of you and receive the prestigious Phil Hill Award,” said Springer, who was joined for the evening by his longtime supporter and wife Yolande. “This is more than an honor. I can tell you that, for me, it’s one of the highlights of my career because I have been here many times in the evenings and I saw the trophy going to some very good friends of mine. And I have to tell you that I’m sitting here and receiving it and it’s something special. And what I really like is that a lot of my friends are here to share the moment with me and that means a lot to me. Thank you.

“The most important part of the RRDC are the champion race-car drivers who are members. And so I’m very nicely surprised that you guys picked me to receive the Phil Hill Award for this year.”

NBC sports commentator and RRDC member Leigh Diffey conducted an interview with Springer covering insider stories from Springer’s time with numerous top teams on the sports-car circuit, commenting, “For those of you in the room who aren’t 83 (Springer’s age) and might be a little bit younger and may not be so familiar with Alwin, this guy’s relationship with Porsche is like fish and chips. It’s like peanut butter and jelly. It’s just synonymous. His name and the brand and what he’s done in this sport is incredible.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Phil Hill Award. (Brian Clery image)

 

 

 

 

 

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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.

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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

 

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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.

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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.

Check it out!

Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com

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SAFE IS FAST–Eric Prill On Grassroots Success

SAFE IS FAST

RRDC LEGENDS

Eric Prill On Grassroots Success
Fellow racers,

While there is naturally a lot of focus on the technologically-advanced machines and fiercely fast drivers in the upper echelons of motorsport, the club racing scene is also buzzing with amazing competition.

In our latest RRDC Legends episode, we’re joined by Sports Car Club of America’s Vice President of Road Racing Eric Prill to learn about the opportunities available to the amateur racer.

Eric shares the story of his National Championship Runoff win in Indianapolis in 2017 and his advice for aspiring drivers.

Check it out!

Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com

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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/

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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

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SAFE IS FAST: How To Ace Your Rookie Season

How To Ace Your Rookie Season
Fellow racers,

As you rise through the junior ranks, you’ll be experiencing a lot of news 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.

Check it out!

Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com

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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.

Check it out!

Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com

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Penske Entertainment Earns SBJ ‘Best Places to Work in Sports’ Honor

Penske Entertainment Earns
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.
MEDIA CONTACTS
Amanda Stanley
Director, Communications
+1-317-492-6649, astanley@brickyard.com
Suzi Elliott
Senior Manager, Media Relations
+1-317-492-6409, selliott@brickyard.com
Paul Kelly
Director, Editorial
+1-315-715-1291, pkelly@brickyard.com

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“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

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RRDC Evening with Derek Bell

Firestone Returns as Presenting Sponsor of RRDC Evening with Derek Bell MBE in Long Beach on April 16, 2026

LEWIS CENTER, Ohio (November 11, 2025) – Firestone returns as presenting sponsor of the Road Racing Drivers Club annual legends dinner in Long Beach, California, on Thursday, April 16, 2026. The 2026 gala, held in advance of the 51st Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, will honor Derek Bell MBE, whose racing career is one of the most successful, diverse and wide-ranging of any British racing driver.

The “Evening with Derek Bell MBE” is the RRDC’s 16th banquet honoring auto racing’s most influential leaders. This is Firestone’s 15th year as presenting sponsor of the RRDC gala, and the brand has been affiliated with the Grand Prix of Long Beach for almost three decades.

The dinner and gala will be held at the Westin Long Beach Hotel at 333 E. Ocean Blvd., the Thursday before the start of the 51st Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, the fifth race of the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES.

All proceeds of the dinner will benefit The Mark Donohue Foundation, which supports the RRDC’s SAFEisFAST initiative.
Derek Bell MBE. (Image courtesy of Derek Bell Archives)
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.

“As Firestone celebrates 125 years of innovation and excellence, we’re honored to support this annual event recognizing the legends of motorsport,” said Lisa Boggs, Director, Bridgestone Americas Motorsports. “Our long-standing partnership with the RRDC and support of The Mark Donohue Foundation and the SAFEisFAST initiative reflect the commitment to motorsports that started with our founder, Harvey Firestone. Our sincere congratulations to Derek Bell on being this year’s deserving honoree.”

“Having Firestone support the RRDC Long Beach dinner for 15 years is a true privilege,” said RRDC President Bobby Rahal. “And there is no one more deserving to be recognized for his outstanding achievements in our sport than Derek Bell MBE. As a longtime friend and fellow racer, I’m proud to represent the RRDC in honoring him.”

Rahal added, “Firestone has an unrivaled heritage in motorsports dating back to the first Indy 500® in 1911. We always welcome Firestone’s support, and salute the brand’s long-standing success and contributions to the sport.”

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.

At the height of his career, in the 1980s and early ’90s, he was one of the top sports car and endurance race-car drivers in the world, achieving no fewer than 16 outright victories in the World Endurance Championship and 19 in the IMSA Camel GT Championship – a total of 35 wins in seven years.

In 1986, Bell was awarded the MBE for services to motorsport and in 2012 was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America and in 2013 the Le Mans 24 Hours Drivers Hall of Fame.

Splitting his time between homes in the U.K. and the U.S., Bell can still be seen at the world’s major automotive and motorsport events. He has never officially stopped racing, and still enjoys carrying out demos at historic races.

In previous years, the RRDC has honored 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 2025, to celebrate The Grand Prix of Long Beach’s 50th anniversary, the RRDC, in cooperation with the GPLB, honored Mario Andretti, Al Unser Jr., and Brian Redman.

These RRDC galas are acknowledged as highlights of the auto-racing social calendar, drawing fans and luminaries from all forms of motorsports.
About Firestone Racing:

Firestone is the exclusive tire supplier of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, including the iconic Indianapolis 500®, and the highest tier of its development series, INDY NXT by Firestone. Firestone is also the Official Tire of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach.

Built on a foundation of innovation, durability, and dependability, Firestone Firehawk™ race tires are engineered to meet the extreme demands of open-wheel racing and have delivered trusted performance for INDYCAR champions for more than a century.

 

Firestone views motorsports as the ultimate proving ground for innovation. It is committed to using racing as a mobile lab to accelerate the use of experimental materials and technologies that help support Firestone’s goal of a more sustainable future for mobility, both on and off the racetrack.

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

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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.

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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://racer.com/2025/10/18/remembering-les-unger-long-time-director-of-u-s-motorsports-for-toyota?utm_source=RACER+//+Newsletter&utm_campaign=1ead1656ce-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_10_20_12_26&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-1ead1656ce-274264313

 

https://www.autoweek.com/racing/nascar/a69065989/nascar-les-unger-obit/

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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!

Read all about it on Racer.com.

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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.

(215) 365-7233

Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum

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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.”

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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.

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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.

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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.”

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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

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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.

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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

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RRDC LEGENDS: Scott Pruett, Master Of The Rolex 24

RRDC LEGENDS: Scott Pruett

Master Of The Rolex 24
Fellow racers,

With a record 10 class wins and five outright wins at the Rolex 24, Scott Pruett is the master of the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

His wins at the Sebring 12 Hour and 24 Hours of Le Mans also make him an endurance racing legend, so who better to advise the next generation of drivers on how to succeed in the world of sportscars?

In our latest RRDC Legends episode, Scott discusses how the Rolex 24 has changed since his first outing and reveals his endurance racing secrets.

Check it out!

Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com

 

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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.

Evro Publishing books are distributed in North America by Quarto Publishing Group USA. Books can be ordered from Quarto by email: sales@quarto.com; phone number: 800-328-0590; or website: www.quartoknows.com Please use the relevant ISBN number when ordering.

“POWER UNLEASHED” is available in the U.S. from specialist and online booksellers, as well as on evropublishing.com.

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A Spotlight on Moon . . . and David Hobbs

Motorsports & Broadcasting Legend David Hobbs to Attend 2025 Radnor Hunt Concours d’Eelgance

Motorsports & Broadcasting Legend David Hobbs

Born in Royal Leamington Spa, England, David Hobbs—affectionately known as “Hobbo”—is a distinguished figure in the world of motorsport. His illustrious career spans over three decades, during which he competed in nearly every major racing series, including Formula 1, Formula 5000, Trans-Am, IMSA, Can-Am, IndyCar, and NASCAR. Notably, he participated in 20 editions of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, achieving podium finishes in 1969 and 1984.

Hobbs began his racing journey in 1959 and quickly gained recognition for his versatility and skill. He secured the 1971 Formula 5000 championship and clinched the 1983 Trans-Am title. His achievements also include a fifth-place finish at the 1974 Indianapolis 500 and leading laps in the 1976 Daytona 500.

Beyond his driving prowess, Hobbs has been a prominent motorsport commentator for over four decades. His insightful analysis and engaging storytelling have graced networks such as CBS, Speedvision, ESPN, and NBCSN, covering events like Formula 1, NASCAR, and IndyCar.

In recognition of his contributions to motorsport, Hobbs was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2009 and received the 2018 Phil Hill Award from the Road Racing Drivers Club.

Currently residing in Vero Beach, Florida, Hobbs continues to be an active ambassador for motorsport, sharing his wealth of experience and passion with enthusiasts worldwide.

Three Great Days Of Events Celebrating Automotive History.

– Featuring Moon, Mercedes, AC, Station Wagons, Shooting Brakes, & Panel Vans!
– Motorcycle Features: Euro Sport, Made in America, and Competition Motorcycles
– Friday September 5th – Sunday September 7th, 2025

We look forward to welcoming you to the 28th Annual Radnor Hunt Concours d’Elegance with over 100 incredible historic and antique automobiles on display.
Guests are welcome to enjoy a full weekend of events, the details of which are listed below!
Tickets are available now at https://radnorconcours.org.

Schedule of Events:

Friday, September 5th

Welcome BBQ at Radnor Hunt Club – 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Join us on the porch of the clubhouse and enjoy catering by Jimmy’s BBQ of Malvern, featuring their homemade meats smoked onsite and accompanied by delicious sides. Meet and Greet Thorncroft Horses at 6:45.

Saturday, September 6th:

Bill O’Connell Memorial Road Rally – 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM (approx.)

The Rally is held rain or shine and begins at 8:00 AM, concluding with a wonderful catered lunch at the Rally finish.
The event consists of a series of questions along with stops at various sponsors to collect a sealed envelope with a playing card. The cards are used for a poker hand to break ties.

Cars & Coffee Presented by Classic Auto Mall – 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM (approx.)
Cars & Coffee is back, with thanks once again to our friends at Classic Auto Mall! Join us Saturday morning to enjoy a cup of Joe on the Radnor Hunt grounds, surrounded by automobiles from the early 1900s to the latest and greatest.

Starting around 8:30, you can catch the departure of the 100+ cars for the Road Rally onto Providence Rd!

Saturday Evening Black Tie Gala – 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Join us for our annual Black Tie Gala, featuring a sit-down dinner, silent auction preview, exclusive spirit tastings, dancing, and outdoor lounge. Don’t miss it!

Sunday, September 7th:

28th Annual Radnor Hunt Concours d’Elegance – 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Featuring a celebration of British Coachbuilders! Allard Sports and Racing Cars, Pre-War MGs, British Motorcycles, and more will grace the grounds of Radnor Hunt, along with other Antique, Vintage, and Classic cars and motorcycles from 1900-1990.

Want to bring your own sports car and park next to the show? Get a ticket for MotorSport Park for just $15 more than General Admission. Includes VIP parking, as well as a program, among other enthusiast cars.

Don’t miss The Shoppes d’Elegance featuring a wide array of vendors!
Tickets are available now at https://radnorconcours.org 

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Safe Is Fast: RRDC LEGENDS: Mike Shank

RRDC LEGENDS: Mike Shank: The Win That Changed Everything

Fellow racers,

The 50th running of the Rolex 24 at Daytona was a special moment for Mike Shank’s team, taking a breakthrough win in their Ford Riley.

In the latest instalment of our RRDC Legends series, Mike recounts the day that changed his family’s life forever.

Mike also gives his advice to young drivers, emphasising the importance of broadening your range of experience and improving your mental capacity when driving the car.

Check it out!

Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com

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Safe Is Fast! The Best Way To Crash

THE BEST WAY TO CRASH
Minimizing Damage To Yourself, Your Car and Competitors
Fellow racers,

Unfortunately, in our line of work crashing is inevitable.

But there are things you can do to crash “safely” to help protect your car, yourself and your fellow competitors.

In our latest video, our champion drivers give their advice on how to minimize impact damage and what you should do in the aftermath.

Check it out!

Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com

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ARIE LUYENDYK: The Biography of a Unique Racing Life

This is the official biography of RRDC member, Arie Luyendyk, written by Arie and Mark Koense.

Arie candidly tells his fascinating life story, how he climbed the adventurous, sometimes hopeless road to the top and ultimately conquered the American dream.

The difficult early years, his success in the Indy 500, his father Jaap, his admiration for other drivers, his love for Mieke and their family, and Arie’s unique view on life – everything is covered in ARIE LUYENDYK, the autobiography of a unique racing life.

376 pages. With 584 photos, mostly never-before-published, including from Arie’s own archives.

Originally only available in Dutch, now available in English. Hardcover, 9″x11″, bound edition. Weight: 5 lbs.

$84.50 

Reserve for late June delivery HERE.

MotorsportCollector.com

A limited quantity of signed copies will be available.

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City of Gardena, California will Honor Ed Iskenderian

The City of Gardena, California plans to honor Ed Iskenderian at the next City Council meeting, Tuesday, June 10th. The meeting begins at 7:30pm PT, and can be viewed live on the City of Gardena YouTube Channel and it will also be on the same channel for future viewing.

The Gardena YouTube page is at: https://www.youtube.com/@CityofGardena/streams  You can view the Council meeting under the “Live” tab once it begins.

For additional information contact Audra Lowe

 Communications Officer | City of Gardena
1700 West 162nd Street | Gardena CA | 90247
Ofc: 310-217-9501| fax 310.217.9694 | ALowe@cityofgardena.org

Website: www.cityofgardena.org

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June Sprints Grand Marshal Dave Weitzenhof

Few drivers epitomize SCCA open-wheel racing more than 82-year-old RRDC member, Dave Weitzenhof, the 2025 WeatherTech Chicago Region June Sprints Grand Marshal. Winning four Formula F National Championships in the ‘70s and ‘80s was no small feat. But add to that a Formula Vee title in 1972, then a pair of Formula Continental titles during the ’90s, and we can’t forget about his 14 June Sprints victories.

Inducted into SCCA’s Hall of Fame in 2020 alongside his wife, Sherrie, Dave also earned the Road Racing Drivers’ Club Mark Donohue Award in 1972 and SCCA’s President’s Cup in 1977. During the weekend of June 6-8, 2025, at Road America, it’s Dave who presented podium finishers with one of the unique and fabulous plaque trophies created by Chicago Region for the June Sprints.

Outside the car, Dave is an accomplished engineer who spent much of his career with Bridgestone/Firestone and has numerous patents to his name. That engineering knowhow served him well in his racing, but he has given it freely to his fellow racers over the years. Without hesitation, car setup and vehicle dynamics information were shared in documents he made readily available to others. He also has given setup seminars at NEohio Region, NEDiv and even SCCA National Conventions.

Both his driving and engineering prowess were applied in test-driving duties for the original SCCA Enterprises Sports Renault, now one of SCCA’s largest car classes known as Spec Racer Ford Gen3.

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Racing Legend Brian Redman to Receive IMRRC’s 11th Annual Cameron R. Argetsinger Award, presented by Sahlen’s, at Corning Museum of Glass on September 4

WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (June 6, 2025) – Englishman Brian Redman, who has claimed nine road-racing championships in his 60 years of competition, will receive the 11th annual Cameron R. Argetsinger Award from the International Motor Racing Research Center at a gala presented by Sahlen’s at the Corning (N.Y.) Museum of Glass on September 4, 2025.

Redman will be honored for his universal contributions to help advance and improve the sport of motor racing.

He will also act as Grand Marshal at Watkins Glen International for the SVRA Mission Foods Watkins Glen Speed Tour on the weekend (https://svra.com/events/2025-watkins-glen-speedtour/).

Friday, September 5, will also feature the Watkins Glen Grand Prix Festival, celebrating the town’s rich racing history (https://watkinsglen.com/grandprix-festival/).

Established in 2014, the CRA Award has been presented to such legends of the sport as Chip Ganassi, Roger Penske, Mario Andretti, Richard Petty, the France Family, Bobby Rahal, Lyn St. James, Mike Helton, Richard Childress and Zak Brown.

The gala is open to the public. Tickets may be purchased at https://www.racingarchives.org/support-the-imrrc/cameron-r-argetsinger-award/. All proceeds benefit the IMRRC, a 501(c)(3) organization. It is recommended to register early, as the event is expected to sell out quickly.

Famed racing TV commentator Dr. Jerry Punch will be the evening’s M.C., and will be joined by racing legend David Hobbs and noted motorsports TV broadcaster Bob Varsha, who will interview the honoree on stage.

Originally from Burnley, Lancashire, Great Britain, Redman now resides in the U.S. He’s collected five professional championships since his racing career began in 1959: the 1970 South Africa Springbok Series title, three straight SCCA Formula 5000 Series titles (1974-1976), and the 1981 IMSA Camel GTP crown. He was also a driver on the teams that won four Championship of Makes titles from 1968-72.

The affable author of “Brian Redman: Daring Drivers, Deadly Tracks,” raced in nearly every category of sports-car racing, including Formula 1, and is the winner of the 1970 Targa Florio; the 12 Hours of Sebring twice, in 1975 and 1978; the 24 Hours of Daytona in 1970, 1976 and 1981; and the Spa-Francorchamps 1000km race four times (1968-1970 and 1971). Cars he’s wheeled include Chevron B16 Spyder, Lola Chaparral T330/T332C, Wyer Gulf Ford, Wyer Gulf Porsche 917, Cooper-BRM, Porsche 908, Aston-Martin AMR1, Ferrari 312 PB, BMW 3.5 liter CSL, Lola T600 GTP, among many others.

Although he retired as a pro driver following the 1989 season, he continues to race in vintage/historic events with a variety of historic race cars. He’s the owner of Targa 66, a club for owners of high-performance road and race cars, organizing competitive events around the country.

In 2002, Redman was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, and, in 2011, the International Motorsports Hall of Fame. He’s a past president of the Road Racing Drivers Club and a life member of the British Racing Drivers Club.

His racing history at Watkins Glen International includes placing second in the 1969 Watkins Glen 6 Hours driving with Jo Siffert in a Porsche 908. He won in 1970 with Siffert for JWE Gulf Porsche in a Porsche 917K. Redman also competed in two U.S. Grand Prix races at WGI (1972 and 1973). In addition, he won the Formula 5000 race there in 1975.

“Brian Redman is one of the true legends of motorsports who has worked tirelessly since his retirement from racing to advance the sport in a number of ways,” said Mark Steigerwald, Executive Director of the IMRRC. “We are privileged to be able to recognize his accomplishments by presenting him the Cameron R. Argetsinger Award.”

The award memorializes Cameron R. Argetsinger, often referred to as the father of American road racing. He was a visionary who, in 1948, conceived, organized, and drove in the first post-war road race in America through the roads of Watkins Glen. He brought Formula 1 to WGI in 1961 and the circuit hosted the United States Grand Prix for 20 years. He was president of the IMRRC for five years, until his death in 2008.

Brian Redman with the Lola T600 he drove in the IMSA GTP class in the 1980s for Cooke-Woods Racing.
(Image courtesy of IMRRC Archives)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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More than 300 Drivers and Motorsports Pros Featured in SAFEisFAST Tutorial Films

More than 300 Drivers and Motorsports Pros Featured in SAFEisFAST Tutorial Films

  • RRDC’s online driver development program SAFEisFAST surpasses 300 contributors
  • The films have amassed 7 million views in 174 countries
  • Champions from F1, IndyCar and IMSA advise next generation of racers
  • SAFEisFAST brings together rival teams and drivers to support RRDC’s educational mission

LEWIS CENTER, Ohio (May 20, 2025) – Since its inception in 2013 by the Road Racing Drivers Club, more than 300 drivers and motorsports professionals have contributed to tutorial films for aspiring racers produced by the club’s online driver development program SAFEisFAST.

SAFEisFAST – which stands for Skilled, Assured, Fit and Empowered – creates tutorial videos for young racers that cover every attribute necessary to become professional drivers and championship winners. They are split into six categories: Finding Speed, Racecraft, Race Car Set-Up, Career Management, Mental & Fitness Training and Driver Safety. The library of over 150 videos is also viewed by amateur racers and e-sports participants both looking for success in the virtual world and transitioning to real world competition.

The RRDC boasts free access to “the faculty money can’t buy” for SAFEisFAST’s films, featuring advice from F1, IndyCar and IMSA champions, including Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso, six-time IndyCar champion Scott Dixon and three-time IMSA champion Jordan Taylor.

Videos feature other leading motorsport professionals, such as team bosses Zak Brown, Roger Penske and Chip Ganassi, as well as media personalities Leigh Diffey, Bob Varsha and Marshall Pruett. Elsewhere, key engineers such as Kyle-Wilson Clarke and Jess Braun, race directors, fitness experts and safety developers from the FIA, IndyCar and motorsport’s leading apparel providers have all contributed.

Three-time IndyCar Champion Alex Palou in SAFEisFAST’s “Steering With Your Feet” film. (Image courtesy of SAFEisFAST)

The films, which have amassed 7 million views in 174 countries, offer a unique platform for rival drivers and teams to come together to work towards the common goal of giving back to the sport and offering championship-winning advice to the next generation of racing talent.
 
“SAFEisFAST is an integral part of the RRDC,” said Bobby Rahal, RRDC President. “There is no other program in the world that offers advice from the very best and most successful drivers completely for free. To have more than 300 contributors from Formula 1, IndyCar, IMSA and other top-level championships for our videos is a testament to the RRDC’s efforts to bring together drivers, team bosses, engineers and other motorsport professionals who want to give back to the sport.”
 
Download Images – For editorial use only. Please credit SAFEisFAST.
 
Those wishing to sign up for the program, may do so here.
 
Watch Films:
 
In 2017, the RRDC created The Mark Donohue Foundation to help support the SAFEisFAST initiative. Information on the Foundation may be found at https://rrdc.org/mark-donohue-foundation/.
 
About SAFEisFAST:
SAFEisFAST is a free, online driver development program produced by the Road Racing Drivers Club, featuring RRDC members and other industry experts. SAFE stands for Skilled, Assured, Fit, Empowered – the qualities a young driver must acquire and hone if they want to be successful. A film library of over 150 videos covers racecraft, lowering lap times, car set-up, driver safety, career management as well as physical and mental fitness.

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Driven to Greatness: 2025 Corvette Hall of Fame Inductees Announced

The Corvette Hall of Fame proudly announces its 2025 class of members-elect, who will be formally inducted during a ceremony on Friday, August 29, 2025, as part of the National Corvette Museum’s 31st Anniversary Celebration.

Established in 1998 by the National Corvette Museum, the Corvette Hall of Fame stands as the highest honor in the Corvette community. For 27 years, it has recognized trailblazers whose passion, integrity, and accomplishments have shaped the history of America’s Sports Car.

Each year, inductees are selected from three categories: Racing, GM/Chevrolet, and Enthusiast.

https://www.corvettemuseum.org/2025-corvette-hall-of-fame-inductees-announced/

A Few Words from RRDC Member John Dinkel

The 2025 Corvette Hall of Fame class includes:  Kim Baker, Chuck Jordan and the husband and wife team of Jim and Charley Robertson.

I have not had the honor of knowing Jim or Charley Robertson, but a quick read of their bio makes it obvious they define the words “Corvette enthusiasts”.

Chuck Jordan was an industry friend whose design work included “the creation of several concept cars that had a significant impact on the Corvette’s evolution, including the Corvette Indy, the CERV III, and the Stingray III.

“Jordan also influenced the styling of the C2, C3, and C4 production Corvettes and was a vocal advocate for preserving the Corvette program during the development of the C5.”

Sadly, Chuck passed away in 2010.

As for Mr. Baker . . .

Kim is a member of the RRDC.  He I raced together in his dominating Corvettes and he is more than worthy of this Corvette Hall of Fame honor.  But I would argue with the Corvette Hall of Fame’s comment that Kim’s “ . . . SCCA career took off in 1984, shortly after he started racing his new C4 Corvette.”

I would humbly submit that Kim’s career took off AFTER he nd his Fiat X1/9 won the Road & Track Manufacturers Challenge Cup multiple times, along with several Rolexes!  LOL.

R&T also voted Kim “One of Ten Most Influential Men in Corvette History.”

And for the sake of accuracy, it was always pronounced Baker Racing, but the correct spelling is either Bakeracing or BAKERACING.

Read the full Hall of Fame press release

Bakeracing Corvette

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Ed Pink 1931-2025

 

RRDC President, Bobby Rahal, on remembering engine builder Ed Pink.

Ed Pink                                    SEMA photo

“We lost another valuable RRDC member in late April, when Southern California engine guru Ed Pink passed away at the age of 94.

“Ed was one of the most prolific and successful engine builders on the drag racing scene from the ’60s on. He also created and developed successful sports car and ndy”Car engines and even Porsche flat 6s for Singer and their recommissioned 911s. 

“A quiet genius, Ed powered such legends as Don Garlits and Don Prudhomme to NHRA Top Fuel Championships as well as multiple Funny Car crowns. 

“We at the RRDC extend our condolences to Sylvia Pink and their family.”

Bobby Rahal, RRDC president

Frank Honsowetz, RRDC Member and General Manager of Ed Pink Racing Engines, Remembers Ed Pink

Ed Pink’s career goes back to even before he began building the 392 and 426 cid Chrysler Hemis for drag racing in the 1960’s, along with his success with a single-overhead-cam Ford engine in drag racing, particularly with Don Prudhomme.

I don’t think most people know that the original Cosworth DFX IndyCar engine was actually developed by Vel’s Parnelli Jones Racing.  In that era Ed built drag race engines for VPJ.  When Cosworth established a facility to build the DFX engines within miles of Parnelli’s place, a couple of ex-VPJ employees became the original Cosworth employees and knew of Ed’s engine facility so they recruited Ed to become involved in the very early production of the DFX.

Ed Pink. Motorsports Hall of Fame photo

Ed built DFX engines through about 1990 when Ford bought Cosworth and they started the engine lease program with the new XB eliminating independent engine builders. Ed moved on and was sought out again, this time to build engines for Jim Busby’s BF Goodrich IMSA GTP Porsche 962s.

Ed worked on that program for several years and then produced the engines for the IMSA GTP Pontiac Spice program. 

In the mid-nineties, when I first met him, I was trying to figure out how to execute the IRL Infiniti Indy Car program.  I went to talk to Ed about some products that he was making that we could incorporate in the program.  Once I got there and saw his facility, I realized how much more capability was there.

That’s when I made the deal with him to become involved in the Infiniti Indy Car engine program.  That program went from 1996 to 2001, and when I told Ed I was leaving Nissan, he asked me to come work for him.

 I worked for Ed on some very interesting programs. We did the engines for Steve Lewis’s incredibly successful 9 Racing USAC Midget racing team, initially using FORD-based engines and later designing and producing the TRD Midget race engines.  The shop also built championship winning TRD, Ford and Chevrolet V-8 race engines for USAC Silver Crown competition. Ed Pink Racing Engines later became even more diverse, building all forms of engines for numerous projects.

Ed sold Ed Pink Racing Engines to Tom Malloy in 2008, but did not stop building engines until recently, finishing his last engine build at the age of 92.

Something many people don’t know about Ed, but one of his most significant traits was that every engine project, everything the shop did had to be perfect. And there were no exceptions, ever. There was no cutting corners.  There was no rushing a job to meet a schedule.  There was no good enough is good enough.

That did not exist in the shop.

Everything had to be perfect and it’s something that I believe made him and the business so successful.

Ed Pink.                                         NHRA photo

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JOCHEN MASS: 1946-2025

Jochen Mass, German Grand Prix,
Nürburgring, 1973, Porsche AG

RRDC President, Bobby Rahal, on remembering long-time RRDC member, former Formula 1 racing driver and 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Jochen Mass who passed away on Sunday, May 4th, 2025.

“I am greatly saddened by the passing of my friend Jochen Mass. He was not just a distinguished driver but a gentlemen and true sportsman, who represented so well the sport we all love.

“He and I drove together to claim victory in the 1987 Sebring 12 Hours driving a Porsche 962C. And later that year, we combined to win the Champion Spark Plug Grand Prix at Mid-Ohio in a Porsche 962.

“The RRDC sends its sincere sympathies to Bettina Mass and their lovely family. And to say we’ve all lost a great friend is a monumental understatement.

Jochen, Sydne and Bettina. Bill Warner photo

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“RIP, my friend, and thank you for the memories.”

Jochen Mass Racing History

Mass was born on September 30, 1946 in Dorfen, Upper Bavaria.

His motor racing talents were first discovered in hill climbs where he performed so impressively that he was offered a contact by Ford in 1970 to race the factory-prepared Capris, winning the European touring car series in 1972.

Ford Capri 1972. Bill Warner photo

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The move into single-seaters came that year with his first races in Formula 3 and then his first Formula 2 victory in a works March at the Nürburgring, a circuit of 14 miles and 174 corners whose challenge he loved. For 1973 he raced for the works Surtees team in Formula 2 before graduating to Formula 1 with the same team for 1974 and collecting his only F1 victory the following year at the Spanish Grand Prix.

Arrow in the esses at the Glen. Bill Warner photo

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mass found his most success in sports cars. Between 1976 and 1987, he was a permanent member of the Porsche works team, racing cars such as the 935, 936, 956 and 962.

Manfred Schurti, Rolf Stommelen, Manfred Jantke, Jochen Mass, Jacky Ickx (left to
right) surrounded by Porsche 935 (left) and Porsche 936 (right). Porsche AG

Le Mans pit stop. Bill Warner photo

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He started on the pole for the 24 Hour of Le Mans three times, once in 1978 with Martini Porsche 936 and back-to-back with Rothmans Porsche 962C in 1985 and 1986. Teamed with Vern Schuppan, he finished second at Le Mans in 1982. However, he wouldn’t win the storied event until he joined Sauber-Mercedes, winning in 1989 with Manuel Reuters and Stanley Dickens as his co-drivers.

Tertre Rouge, Sauber-Mercedes, Le Mans win, 1989. Bill Warner photo

Tertre Rouge, Sauber-Mercedes, Le Mans win, 1989. Bill Warner photo

Mass ended his racing career in 1992 with an impressive record:

  • More than 400 races
  • 105 Grand Prix starts
  • 71 World Championship points
  • Winner of the German Racing Championship
  • European Touring Car Champion
  • Porsche Cup winner
  • German Sports Car Champion
  • Le Mans winner with Sauber-Mercedes.
Jochen Mass together with Derek Bell (left) and Hans-Joachim Stuck (center) at a media event in Leipzig. Porsche AG

Jochen Mass together with Derek Bell (left)
and Hans-Joachim Stuck (center) at a media
event in Leipzig. Porsche AG

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“We are very saddened by the news of his death. Jochen Mass was a driver with depth. One who could understand the car like few others”, says Thomas Laudenbach, Vice President Porsche Motorsports. “He had an excellent feel for technology and for everything that makes a team strong. We are losing a remarkable driver and a trusted companion who was with us for many years. His legacy extends well beyond his success – it lives in memories, in stories and in his way of thinking about motorsports. Our thoughts are with his family.”

2020: Jochen Mass (left) and Norbert Singer at the Retro Classics. Porsche AG.

2020: Jochen Mass (left) and Norbert Singer at the Retro Classics. Porsche AG.

 

 

 

 

 

RRDC Member Jim Busby Remembers Jochen Mass

Sept 29, 1985, the 500 km of the Glen. Jochen was my co-driver in the Porsche 962 B.F. Goodrich car and we were on the outside of the front row. Al Holbert and Derek Bell qualified on the pole and were on the inside.

Busby-Mass pitstop at Daytona. Bill Warner photo

Busby-Mass pitstop at Daytona. Bill Warner photo

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We took off and raced them the whole race long. And I don’t know where we passed them, but we did, and we won the race.

So Jochen says, “Come on, let’s go to the winner’s circle.” We go to the winner’s circle, and we get the medals on. And all of a sudden they change their mind and say, “Al Holbert won the race.”

I’m livid. But Jochen…he was the most mellow guy that ever lived…just smiled and said, “Well, that’s the way it goes sometimes.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jim Busby, Darin Brassfield, Jochen Mass, John Morton.

Jim Busby photo

And he says, “Buzz, calm down, man. There’ll be plenty more of these.”

We became very close and we remained great friends to the end. Some people think Jochen was a little conceited. But he was just a normal guy who was quiet.

I watched him go through every change in life, and he always came out smiling on the other side. And you couldn’t fluster the guy, and that’s one of the reasons he was such a great race car driver and one of the best co-drivers I ever had.

We saw each other constantly, often at historic events after our careers, and we remained dear friends to the end.

RRDC Member Bill Warner Remembers Jochen Mass

Chuck Queener artwork for Amelia Island 2104. Bill Warner photo

Chuck Queener artwork for Amelia Island 2104.
Bill Warner photo

He was a really wonderful man. Great sense of humor, at times self-deprecating, always positive, though. He was a racing treasure.

First story:

He was asked to drive the McLaren he raced on the McLaren Team with James Hunt for the filming of “Rush.” When he went to the wardrobe lady to get his garb for the filming, she asked, “Who are you?” Of course he answered “Jochen Mass.”

“No”, she said. “That is who you are playing. Who are you really?”

To which he answered, “I am really Jochen Mass.”

I guess she got it.

Marlboro McLaren . . . a wee bit of oversteer. Bill Warner photo

Marlboro McLaren . . . a wee bit of oversteer. Bill Warner photo

 

 

 

 

 

Second Story:

Last year, Mercedes-Benz flew Jochen over to drive one of the W196s for a media demonstration at the Salinas Airport. But Mercedes-Benz would not pay for his room. Go figure, as I don’t understand it. In any event, I had a spare bed and he used that. It was a great weekend with my friend. We hit the Monterey Fish House, he came to the track (Laguna Seca) and just had fun like a couple of kids. It will be a time I will always remember.

In his retirement, David Hinton of HSR, had him come over and drive a Porsche 911 in the 24 Hour Heritage race. Now think of this, here is a man who won Le Mans and raced in Formula 1, mixing it up with the great unwashed. And he did it for the fun of doing it. I can’t imagine Lewis Hamilton doing anything even remotely similar. He was an enthusiast who loved racing and racing people and it showed. I will miss his smile and sense of humor.

Bill Warner photo

Bill Warner photo

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