LE MANS: A trio of Second Generation Drivers

As who will win the battle of rookies this year?

 

Continuing my overview of five promising drivers. Here’s three who’s fathers were former Formula 1 pilotes.

 

Eduardo Barrichello

DOB: September 23, 2001, Age: 24

U.S. F2000 National Championship: 2019-2020; Stock Car Pro Series

LMGT3: #23 The Heart of Racing, Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 Evo

Eduardo Barrichello is the older son of Rubino’, nee Rubens Barrichello, who once held the record for most Grands Prix starts at 322. Before being surpassed by Kimi Raikkonen.

 

F1: Alonso Moves into P1’

 

Rubino’ won 11 Grands Prix, primarily as Michael Schumacher’s Wingman at Scuderia Ferrari between 2000-2005. Before winning twice for Brawn GP as Bloody Jense’s (Button) teammate in 2009.

 

Rubens also contested the 2012 IndyCar Series alongside friend TK’, aka Tony Kanaan and EJ Viso for KV Racing Technology. Being named Rookie Of the Year in His lone Indianapolis 500 start, after finishing 11th.

 

Just learned that Eduardo’s Mum’ is Silvana Giaffone Alcide, and that Felipe Giaffone is His uncle, and Alfonso Giaffone is His second uncle. As many will know that both drivers competed in the Indianapolis 500 during the Indy Racing League (IRL) era.

 

As Felipe is best known for being at a Babys R Us store when getting the call from A. J. Foyt to come and Bump His way into the field in 2005, bumping Arie Luyendyk Jr out of the race…

 

As Felipe’s son Nicolas (Eduardo’s cousin) was the USF Juniors champion in 2023. While Eduardo’s younger brother Fernando is also a racing driver.

 

Eduardo sent two seasons in U.S. F2000 National championship “Road to Indy” Feeder Series with a best finish of runner-up in 2020, driving for Pabst Racing. With Christian Rasmussen winning the title.

 

After racing Stock Cars in Brasilia, Barrichello moved to Sports Cars in 2025. And currently is contesting the full IMSA SportsCar Championship for Heart of Racing’s Aston Martin team this year. Along with also competing in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) for Heart of Racing

 

“Dudu”, Eduardo’s nickname, will share the No. 23 Aston Martin Vantage with Jonny Adam and Gray Newell.

 

Guiliano Alesi

DOB: September 20, 1999, Age: 26

Formula 2: 2019-2020; Super formula; Super GT300-Super GT500

LMGT3: #62 Team Qatar by Iron Lynx, Mercedes AMG GT3

I have several memories revolving around Guliano’s father, who I affectionately call “Mean Jean” Alesi here upon No Fenders.

 

Recalling His audacity to battle for the lead of the 1990 Iceberg Grand Prix on the streets of Downtown Phoenix vs. Ayrton Senna and His championship winning McLaren! As Alesi was driving that evocative Tyrrell 018, with the first dihedral “High Nose” racecar.

 

Sending shock waves through Formula 1 when leading the race, then repassing Senna’s superior McLaren Honda V-10, Eventually finishing runner-up to Senna with a customer Cosworth DFR V-8.

 

Along with all of His talent only netting a lone Formula 1 win at the 1995 Canadian Grand Prix for Scuderia Ferrari. Plus that Jordan F1 car with 200 boldly emblazoned on it’s sidepods, celebrating Alesi’s 200th Grand Prix start, which was a big deal Wayback in 2001!

 

Or being at the 2012 Indianapolis 500, where I coined the moniker “Mean Jean” when driving that recalcitrant Lotus by Judd Dallara for Fan force United. Just noticing that being the same year Rubens Barrichello was racing at Mother Speedway…

 

Guiliano’s Mum’ is none other than Kumiko Goto, a Japanese former Model, Actress and Pop singer.

 

Guiliano joined the Ferrari Driver Academy in 2016, along with Arthur Leclerc, younger brother of Scuderia Ferrari pilote Charles.

 

For 2019, He contested His rookie FIA formula 2 season for Trident with mediocre results, finishing 15th overall. A switch to Hwa Racelab the following year did little to advance His career, jumping ship to MP Motorsport at season’s end and finishing P17 overall.

 

Guiliano left the Ferrari Driver Academy in 2020, after a single outing in a Ferrari SF71H.

 

After finishing runner-up in Super Formula Lites with four wins, Alesi graduated to Super formula in 2021, winning at Autopolis, before being dropped during the 2023 season, once again due to poor results.

 

Alesi subsequently drove in Super GT300 before moving up to Super GT500

 

As previously mentioned, Guiliano will share the No. 62 Team Qatar by Iron Lynx entry with Addulla Al-Khalaifi and Julian Hanses. Being unaware it was Alesi’s Le Mans debut, along with Qatari Al-Khalaifi and Team Qatar’s.

 

Lorenzo Patrese

DOB: August 12, 2005, Age: 20

Italian Formula 4: 2020-2021; GT World Challenge Europe, IMSA GT Daytona

LMGT3: #74 Kessel Racing, Ferrari 296 GT3 Evo

Lorenzo’s Pop’s is former F1 driver Riccardo Patrese. Once the Ironman of Formula 1, amassing the most career starts at then a staggering 256. Before ironically being surpassed by Rubino’.

 

Now it’s a Record!

 

Lorenzo has the least seat-time of these second generation drivers in single seaters, debuting at the Mugello round. Then racing at Monza in the 2020 Italian Formula 4 championship, His debut in single seaters. Then finished third in the following year’s Italian F4 Rookie cup and 12th overall, before moving onto Sports Cars.

 

Lorenzo has been contesting the GT World challenge Europe Endurance and Sprint series since 2022.

 

Across thoust Gory Puddle, Patrese drove Ferrari 296 GT3 Evo’s for Cetilar Racing last year, and Conquest Racing this season in the IMSA GT Daytona (GTD) category.

 

Lorenzo is also a winning Show Jumping Horse rider, which He’s done for several years, along with studying International Business at University.

 

Lorenzo joins Eduardo and Guiliano making  His debut at Circuit de la Sarthe. With co-drivers Dustin Blattner and Dennis Marschall behind the wheel of the Kessel Racing Ferrari. 

2025 Le Mans LMGT3 Postscript

As move over Jacky Ickx, Thars’ a new six times class winner!

 

According to Daily sports Car’s post race report, the No. 92 Manthey 1st Form Porsche 911GT3 R claimed a dominating victory over the second place No. 21 Vista AF Corse Ferrari 296 GT3.

 

Hurriedly scribbling sometime during the final 90mins, the No. 92 led last portion of race, winning LMGT3 for second year in-a-row. Jotting down the finishing order below, presumably during the final hourly update.

 

LMGT3: #92-21-81-27-87-90

 

Seeing the aforementioned first two finishers followed by TF Sport’s Chevrolet Corvette Z06.R; Heart of Racing Team’s Aston Martin Vantage; Akkodis Asp’s Lexus RC F and the second Manthey Porsche 911 R. (992 model)

 

Whilst I simply couldn’t resist the quote from Richard Lietz, part of Manthey’s winning driver trio.

 

“First of all, you have to be very old to be able to win six times! I am lucky enough to be here for the 19th time with Porsche, always as a factory driver. And basically every year since 2007, it has been really good to me.”

 

“Le Mans with six victories is incredible. And it’s the first time back-to-back. Manthey last year trusted me: I was kind of at the end of my driver career, towards the end, and I was thinking of stopping, and then they said, like, I have to come back. So now, two years later, two more Le Mans victories.”

(Source: dailysportscar.com)

 

Lietz’s six class victories at Circuit de la Sarthe were in  2007, 2010, 2013, 2022, 2024-2025. Being joined this year by Ryan Hardwick and Riccardo Pera, being familiar with Lietz and Hardwick’s names. As Hardwick came upon my radar when winning the 2022 Rolex 24 GTD class for Wright Motorsports.

 

Whilst I was unaware that He’d won the 2023 European Le Mans Series (ELMS) LMGTE and 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) LMGT3 class titles.

 

Funniest bit is Lietz’s quip about having to be really old to win so many times, with Hardwick being some three years, two weeks older if I’ve done my ryth-huh-tickin’ correctly? (Hardwick’s currently 45 years old) With Pera being the young whippersnapper of this trio at just 26.

 

Another name I recognized was Charlie Eastwood, who finished third aboard the TF Sport Corvette, who also competes for EXDT Racing in IMSA GTD competition.

 

While I’ve long been a fan of The Heart of Racing Team since it’s Team Seattle days supporting Seattle’s Childrens Hospital, spearheaded by Ian James. Although now based in Phoenix, AZ and having switched from Porsche 911’s to becoming Aston Martin’s Werks Hypercar operation in both the WEC and IMSA GTP.

 

The No. 27 Aston Martin Vantage started on pole, but James and Zacharie Robichon, both longtime IMSA competitors were part of the car finishing fourth, along with Mattia Drudi. As Robichon won the 2021 IMSA GTD championship for Pfaff Motorsports.

 

Ironically, just discovering that Robichon was part of that 2022 Wright Motorsports Rolex 24 GTD class winning quartet ‘O drivers. Alongside Hardwick, Lietz and Jan Van Hagar’ Heylen.

 

Although I know the name of the French Lexus race team, since I struggle on their spelling. Guessing fifth place is about what to expect from the long in the tooth Lexus racecar, with 2026 being its final season.

 

As I’m guessing that LMGT3 was largely overlooked, due to the excitement of the late LMP2 antics, and everybody focused upon that bright yellow No. 83 Ferrari 499P winning overall.

 

While are we really surprised it was another Porsche v Ferrari battle in LMGT3… 

MOTO GP: The forgotten Championship?

Move over Pinball wizard’, Thars’ a new Italian threat on the Hunt!

 

Ticking over the one quarter mark of the 2026 MotoGP season, I thought I’d finally get round to reviewing the season’s start. Although just thru Round 5’s French Grand Prix.

 

Since after all, France becomes the racing epicenter in June. At some place called Le Mans. With the MotoGP event taking place upon its Seester’ track…

 

Although pretty sure that ‘Ol Ettore Bugatti would be rolling over at my use of Seester’ nomenclature…

 

Surprisingly, the 2026 MotoGP grid remains largely unchanged, with the exception of two riders. Being the additions of Diogo Moreira and Toprak Razgatlioglu.

 

22 year old Brazilian Moreira is the reigning Moto2 champion. Replacing Somkiat Chantra at Pro Honda LCR.

 

29 year old Razgatlioglu. from Turkey, the reigning three-times Superbike’s champion. Replaces Miguel Oliveira at Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP.

 

With only three riders being replaced due to injures to date. As VK8 Gresini Racing’s Fermin Aldeguer broke His leg during training, and was replaced by Ducati Corse test rider Michele Pirro in Thailand.

 

Then at Circuit Of The Americas, (COTA) Maverick “Top gun” Vinales, also known as Batman withdrew after practice due to a loose screw in His shoulder.

 

Uhm, a screw from His previous injury in Germany last year was inflicting pain and caused Vinales to not race at Austin…

 

Undergoing further surgery, Vinals had hoped the extended break in the MotoGP calendar would allow Him to be ready for Jerez. But the Spaniard wasn’t deemed medically fit for His home race.

 

Adding insult to injury, substitute rider Pol Espargaro suffered a hand injury prior to Jerez, leaving the Red Bull Tech 3 KTM squad with just Enea Bastianini competing, before Vinales was replaced by Jonas Folger for the French Grand Prix.

 

Yet through the French Grand Prix on the Bugatti circuit, the rider who’s been fairly untouchable was Aprilia’s Marco Bezzecchi! As the Italian began the season where He’d left off, scoring His third MotoGP win in-a-row; following last year’s triumphs at Portimoa and Valencia.

 

Bezzecchi “Blitzed” the field in Thailand, and comfortably won ahead of Pedro Acosta by 5.5 seconds. While the Aprilia RS-GP26 is now clearly the Scooter’ to beat! With Aprilia claiming four of the top five spots. With Bezzecchi’s teammate thee Martinator’, nee Jorge Martin sandwiched between Trackhouse’s Raul Fernandez (third) and Ai Ogura. (fifth)

 

After passing polesitter Fabio Di Giannantonio in Brazil, Bezzecchi motored off to His fourth win in-a-row. Only the fifth rider to do so; behind Valentino Rossi, Marc Marquez, Jorge Lorenzo and Francesco Bagnaia.

 

Martin finished second, giving the factory Aprilia squad a 1-2 finish at Autodromo Internacional Ayrton Senna.

 

Circuit Of The Americas (COTA) saw Bezzecchi continuing His domination of MotoGP, claiming a fifth successive victory on the trot, with Martin runner-up again. While Ogura’s Aprilia “done blown Up!” With five laps remaining when in third.

 

“Watching”, Err listening to the Spanish Grand Prix highlights, the announcers screamed Oh No! Marc Marquez has crashed out again! As Marquez was chasing His younger brother Alex who was leading. With Alex snapping Bezzecchi’s win streak with His second win at home in Jerez, the second year in-a-row.

 

Also hearing that it was a belated 30th birthday present to the Spanish rider, with Bezzecchi settling for second.

 

Yet obviously, the biggest “Star” rider to suffer another injury was Marc Marquez at Le Mans Bugatti circuit! Crashing heavily during the Saturday Sprint race, Marquez suffered a broken foot. Then having surgery for both the foot and His shoulder. Removing two damaged screws from a previous surgery.

 

As the reigning MotoGP champion will miss the next few rounds, albeit no idea how long His recovery will take?

 

Listening to the highlights of this year’s French Grand Prix, with no idea Marc Marquez was out. Aprilia made history by claiming its first ever podium lock-out. With Jorge Martin hunting down Aprilia teammate Marco Bezzecchi and winning for the first time in 588 days! The Martinator’s las W’ being at Indonesia in 2024…

 

Bezzecchi had to settle for second, with Trackhouse Racing’s Ai Ogura third. Hearing that it was the First “Dry” podium for a Japanese rider since 2006! And first podium since 2012 “Wet” race.

 

Shinya Nakano was the rider at the 2006 Dutch GP. While Katsuyuki Nakasuga was the rider at the 2012 Grand Prix of Valencia. With both finishing second.

 

Yet what totally baffled me, was hearing the Announcer saying thee Martinator and Ogura very well may become Yamaha’s factory lineup next year, say What?

 

Apparently the door opens for Martin with Fabio Quartararo moving to Honda. And reportedly Francesco Pecco’ Bagnaia will take Martin’s Aprilia seat…

 

Although I cannot fathom why Martin would wish to leave Aprilia, since they’re the bike to have. Although I was totally unaware that next year MotoGP will move to its new 850cc format.

 

Whilst Martin had tried wriggling out of His Aprilia contract a year early last season. So who knows, will Jorge once again take the No. 1 plate to a new manufacturer, a la 2024?

 

Obviously, not if Marco Bezzecchi has anything to say about it! 

PHOTO: Felix forever

Indianapolis Star newspaper photo of Felix Rosenqvist. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

I’m told that the newspaper’s caption reads Felix forever! As He joyously pours milk over His head in victory lane after winning this year’s Indianapolis 500. Which we all know was the closest finish ever in history, a scant 0.0233 seconds, eclipsing the 1992 record of 0.043 seconds set by Al Unser Jr.

 

Funniest part after Felix-the-Cat’s monumental victory was during His winners interview with IndyCar Radio’s Alex Wolff. Who’s got a tradition of giving His Mom’s homemade cookies out to various co-workers and drivers, which has become common with Rosenqvist.

 

So it was hilarious hearing Alex present Him with one of His mom’s cookie’s in victory lane. And after Felix said thank you very much, I swear I heard the Cat chewing His cookie.

 

VIDEO: Felix Rosenqvist winner’s interview

 

Photo C/O No Fenders Offical’ Photographer CARPETS’ 

Indianapolis 500 Driver Factoids

Yeah, let’s just push the Cliffs  nothing-burger’ car back into the garage, and knock off the Drive for 5 nonsense! (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Who’ll be adding their name to the record books this year?

 

Arse-sumedly, most of Yuhs will already know this? But thought I’d “Jot” it down quickly for those keeping tabs…

 

This year’s field only has 33 total entries with no bumping, BOO! Comprised of the full season 25 Charter entries and 8 “At large” entries, sound familiar? Can Y’all say 25/8 Rule, Eh?

 

Naturally it appears to fast becoming another Alex Palou Gravy-train express to His fifth championship title overall, and fourth consecutive, Aye Karumba!

 

Indy 500 Rookies

#4. Caio Collet, Brazil; A. J. Foyt Enterprises

#19. Dennis Hauger, Norway; Dale Coyne Racing

#47 Mick Schumacher, Germany; Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing

#51. Jacob Abel, USA; Abel Motorsports

 

Caio collet is 24 years old and finished “Vice champion” (Runner-up) in last year’s Indy NXT championship. claiming three wins.

 

Prior to the Sonsio Grand Prix at Mother Speedway, Collet was P21 overall with a best finish of 12th at Arlington.

 

Having qualified 12th at Indy’s road course, Caio was collected in a first lap accident and never recovered, finishing P19, ironically one place ahead of Mick Schumacher.

 

Dennis Hauger is 23 years old and is the reigning Indy NXT champion, claiming seven wins enroute to the title.

 

Prior to the Indy Road Course race, He was 16th overall with a best finish of 10th at St. Pete.

 

Although starting a disappointing P24, Hauger worked His way thru the wild ‘n wooly Sonsio Grand Prix for a career best finish of eighth!

 

Mick Schumacher is 27 years old. A former Formula 1 driver and winner of the 2020 Formula 2 championship.

 

Prior t this May’s Indy’s permanent road course race, where He made His IndyCar debut testing for RLLR last October, Mick’s best finish was P17 at Long Beach; being 24th overall.

 

Mick looked set for a possible top ten finish at IMS until a late race collision with Santino Ferrucci, who had worn out His tyres. Netted Schumacher a Drive-thru penalty and a finish of P20 Saturday.

 

Jacob Abel is 25 years old and finished second overall in the 2024 Indy NXT championship. Last year He drove for Dale Coyne Racing in IndyCar, but failed to qualify of the Indianapolis 500.

 

This year Jacob make’s His Indy 500 debut in a “One-off” drive for His family’s team at Mother Speedway, while competing in IMSA Spors Car LMP2 category for Era Motorsports.

 

Hauger currently leads the Rookie Of the Year (ROY) battle with 100 points. Followed by Collet, 30 markers adrift, and Schumacher third,  a further 16 markers behind Collet, with 54 points.

 

Hauger finished 15th in His first IndyCar oval race at Phoenix this March. Collet finished 19th , and Schumacher sandwiched in-between at P18.

 

Arguably, Mick Schumacher has the least IndyCar experience of these four rookies, with only one oval race to His credit, not to mention being on His second race Engineer…

 

Indy 500 Only entries

#06. (W) Helio Castroneves, Brazil; Meyer Shank Racing

#11. Katherine Legge, UK; HMD Motorsports with Foyt enterprises

#23. Conor Daly, USA; Dreyer & Reinbold Racing

#24. Jack Harvey, UK; Dreyer & Reinbold Racing

#31. (W) Ryan Hunter-Reay; Arrow McLaren

#33. Ed Carpenter, USA; ECR

#75. (W) Takuma Sato, Japan; Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing

 

‘Ol Dancin’ fool Hulio’ is the most decorated of these seven Indy 500 Only runners with four Borg Warners to date. As could we please stop the Drive-for-5 nonsense!

 

Taku-san’ (Sato) is the only other multiple winner, which very likely could have been three; Playin’ Thru Dario!

 

The Dude! Nee Ryan Hunter-Reay is the only other former winner, while Fast Eddie’ has won three poles.

 

Indy 500 Pole Sitters

(6) Rick Mears: 1979, 1982, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1991

(5) Scott Dixon: 2008, 2015, 2017, 2021, 2022

(4) Helio Castroneves: 2003, 2007, 2009, 2010

(3) Ed Carpenter: 2013, 2014, 2018

(1) Alex Palou: 2023

(1) Scott McLaughlin: 2024

 

The last pole sitter to win the Indianapolis 500 was Symone’, nee Pageantry’, aka Simon Pagenaud in 2019.

 

Indy 500 Consecutive Winners

Wilbur Shaw: 1939-1940

Mauri Rose: 1947-1948

Bill Vukovich: 1953-1954

Al Unser: 1970-1971

Helio Castroneves: 2001-2002

Josef Newgarden: 2023-2024 

RETRO: Remembering Scott Brayton – 30 Years later

Who was known for His speed, and synonymous with those stock block Buicks…

 

Today marks the 53rd anniversary of another fallen driver at Mother Speedway, that being Art Pollard.

 

Remembering Art Pollard - Redux

 

Yet instead, this story is about the late Scott Brayton, whom I really know nothing about. But it seems appropriate that upon the 30th anniversary of His death, May 17, 1996 33 cars will be roaring around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway…

 

A Coldwater, Michigan native born on February 20, 1959. I have no idea how Scott began racing or rose thru the ranks to become an IndyCar driver. Or that Scott’s father Lee Brayton was an IndyCar driver Himself, who attempted racing in the 1972-74 Indianapolis 500 races. With His best results being three tenth place finishes; twice at Michigan International Speedway, and once at Texas World Speedway between 1972-75.

 

Lee also ran Brayton Engineering, being instrumental in the Buick V-6 Stock Block engine’s development and building of engines.

 

Scott drove for the family’s Brayton Racing between 1981-85. Presumably in older equipment, since a cursory “look-see” at 1981’s CART PPG IndyCar World Series entries notes the usage of a Penske PC-6 Cosworth DFX. Along with somebody named Floyd Ganassi Jr making His IndyCar debut at the Phoenix season finale in a second Brayton Racing chassis…

 

Ganassi drives Indy

 

Scott then switched to Hemelgarn Racing for 1986-88. Meaning I must have seen Him racing at Portland the latter two years, where He finished fifth and ninth.

 

Then came what must have only been five frustrating years driving for Dick Simon Racing between 1989-93.

 

Being a Young Buck then, I’m certain I lambasted Scott alongside Lyn St. James in those perpetual CART Back-markers during my yearly jaunts to Portland International Raceway. Even though Brayton recorded His best season finish of 12th overall in 1991, with an eventual 147 career IndyCar starts. With Brayton’s best finish being a podium in 1992 at the Milwaukee Mile, finishing third.

 

In 1994, Soctt moved onto Team Menard, then an Indy 500 Only contestant, where He’d spend the rest of His career before His untimely death.

 

Arguably, Scott’s best known for His two Indianapolis 500 poles, but I’m getting ahead of Thyself…

 

 As Scott made a total of 14 Indy 500 starts between 1981 to 1996, having failed to qualify in 1982.

 

For His rookie outing in 1981, Brayton finished 16th after starting in the middle of Row 10. (29th) Then for 1983, Scott scored His first Top-10 finish at the Brickyard in ninth.

 

It appears that Scott in a Brayton Racing March 84C was the first driver to utilize the stock block Buick V-6 at Mother Speedway. Qualifying 26th and finishing P18. Then displaying the Buick’s mighty horsepower one year later. With a superb second place in qualifying, bested only by Pancho Carter, also driving a Buick stock block racecar.

 

Brayton set the one-lap record at 214.199mph on His third lap, but slowed on lap four due to transmission woes. Setting the four lap record at 212.354mph.

 

Yet although Carter couldn’t top Brayton’s one lap record, Pancho did qualify at 212.533mph, claiming the four lap record by a miniscule 0.177 seconds enroute to winning the 1985 pole.

 

Brayton finished a disappointing 30th when His engine “Done Blown Up” on lap 19! Whilst Carter was the race’s first retirement on lap six with a failed oil pump.

 

Its funny, when I think of Buick at Indy, I think of Jim Crawford, and to lesser extent Gary Bettenhausen. Alongside Scott in those Heartily-boosted BuickV-6 lumps not known for their reliability.

 

Scott’s best finish at Indianapolis were a pair of sixth place finishes. Once in 1989, driving a Lola T89/00 Buick V-6. And again in  1993, aboard a Lola T93/00 Ford-Cosworth XB.

 

Sandwiched in-between the pair of sixes, was the third of His eventual four Top-10 finishes, with a seventh place result in a Lola/Cosworth. With His best three finishes all being for Dick Simon.

 

Having moved to Team Menard in an Indy 500 Only role the year prior, for 1995, Scott claimed the first of His two pole positions at the Brickyard. Claiming P1 with a four lap average of 231.604mph. Yet pop-off valve and turbocharger gremlins saw Brayton finish P17, 10 laps behind winner Jacques Villeneuve.

 

Most of us know that 1996 was a tumultuous year in Open wheel Racing, thanks to Tony George creating the Indy Racing League (IRL) an infamous 25-8 rule…

 

Thus being a CART loyalist, my attention was firmly focused upon the U.S. 500 at Michigan International Speedway instead, meaning I didn’t watch that year’s Indianapolis 500.

 

Scott claimed His second pole position that May in noteworthy fashion. Having qualified at 231.535mph, not fast enough for P1. As rookie teammate Tony Stewart had set “A New Track Record” at 233.100mph!

 

With 33 minutes remaining, Arie Luyendyk took to the track in His backup chassis, having blown-up His primary car’s engine that morning! With the “Flying Dutchman” setting new one and four lap records with a pole speed of 233.390mph.

 

Yet at 5:42PM, with Team Menard having pulled Brayton’s previous time, Scott took to the track aboard His backup chassis, an re-qualified with a four lap average of 233.718mph for His second pole position!

 

At 7:45PM, Luyendyk’s car was DQ’ed (Disqualified) due to being seven pounds under the minimum 1,550lb weight limit, elevating Stewart to second place and Davy Jones to third.

 

Sadly, on May 17th while practicing, Scott blew a tyre entering Turn-3 and was killed instantly when slamming the wall at 230mph! Dying at the age of 37, leaving behind wife Becky, and two year old daughter Carly.

 

Danny Ongais would drive as Scott’s replacement, starting last, with Tony Stewart starting from pole…

 

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway instituted the Scott Brayton Drivers award the following year, awarded to drivers demonstrating the same passion and spirit of Scott until 2009. Which I’m guessing such drivers as Davey Hamilton cherish winning this award… 

Acura celebrates 40th Birthday in style at Long Beach

As move over “Red rocker” this Integra’s playing thru!

 

Nah Race Fans, no riveting Long Beach IndyCar reports here, Hya! Instead perhaps Y’all heard about or spotted that Rad’ Acura Integra No. 40 tribute car over the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach weekend?

 

As Honda bought itself a birthday present, even after declaring its first ever loss in 70 years, to the tune of some $16 Billion! Along with cancelling the planned production of three new EV’s in North America…

 

I don’t know about Y’all, but when I hear the word Comptech, I immediately think of Parker Johnstone! Which for some reason I’ve just learned (again) was born in Redmond, Oregon, say what?

 

As Honda launched its luxury brand Acura on March 27, 1986, and immediately backed then unknown of Comptech Racing to build “Sporty” Integra racecars that dominated IMSA’s International Sedan series between 1987-90. While Comptech had built Honda’s very first North American racecar in 1985, a CRX model.

 

Comptech then graduated to IMSA’s Camel Lights category with similar crushing results. Winning the championship three years on-the-trot, including two Rolex 24 and one 12 Hours of Sebring class victories between 1991-93.

 

Five years ago, I noted here upon No Fenders how Wayne Taylor Racing’s win in the Rolex 24 was a Historic Three-peat for WTR. Joining the likes of rival Chip Ganassi Racing. (CGR) Prior to Porsche Penske Motorsport joining the “Party” this year.

 

Also being Wayne Taylor’s fourth overall W’ in five years; its latest 24 Hours of Daytona victory. Along with being a Watershed moment for Acura, scoring it’s Breakthrough Overall 24 Hours of Daytona victory. Before securing its own Three-peat at Daytona thanks to WTR and Meyer shank Racing’s (MSR) wins between 2021-23.

 

Although then, I was unaware that Comptech Racing had won at Daytona with a Spice SE90CL Prototype chassis, propelled by Acura’s NSX V-6 lump’ in the GTP Lights Class. Ironically 30 years ago, which Marshall Pruett chronicled in his usual Brilliant writing.

 

ROLEX 24 RETRO: Acura’s wild breakthrough Daytona win

 

The Comptech entry was put on it’s Class Pole by some Cat named Parker Johnstone, remember him Y’all? As think He was one of Ye Oldest IndyCar blogger’s Geo. Phillips favourite IndyCar Announcers, Hya!

 

Comptech then joined Rahal/Hogan Racing’s revival of Honda engines in the CART/PPG IndyCar World Series in 1994, making its debut at Portland International Raceway. Competing in IndyCar for three years. With Johnstone scoring Honda’s maiden IndyCar Pole position at Michigan International Speedway in 1995.

 

Having scribbled previously about Honda’s return to IndyCar racing in the following No Fenders yarn.

 

Honda Racing’s 75yrs Trilogy Conclusion

 

If you’re still following along? Then I’ll cut to the chase. As Acura created a Rad’ first generation No. 40 Integra racecar paying homage to those early Comptech racecars. Appropriately sprayed in vivid red, with a “refreshed” 1.6-litre straight four lump’ mated to a five speed manual gearbox.

 

Having originally learned about this throwback tribute vehicle on my Newsline for The Blind’s telephone service’s Car & Driver magazine section.

 

Which I’ll let the story’s author Eric Stafford do the “Heavy” lifting, and give All of the Gory details below…

 

Acura Celebrates Turning 40 by Building this Rad Integra Race Car

 

Although naturally, I stumbled upon another article on Ye All knowing Intrawoods’, claiming that Comptech Racing had actually won both the IMSA International Sedan series Manufacturer and Drivers championships four years in-a-row. Both with Comptech co-founder Doug Peterson and teammate Parker Johnstone.

 

The original Acura Integra completely ruled its IMSA Class

 

As who knows? Perhaps Acura will bring us a third generation NSX model sometime in the future. Perhaps with a GT3 spec racecar? Since it would be cool seeing an Acura NSX Evo LMGT3 poundin’ round Circuit de la Sarthe… 

A Weekend of Motorsports Firsts

As who’ll break the next record?

 

Yeah, who knows what will happen next? Especially since we’ve been in the relatively “Quiet” month of April. With Formula 1 having cancelled both Middle East races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia due to the Iran War! And MotoGP postponing its Qatar round until early November, in hopes the Straight of Hormuz will have been reopened, Splat!

 

IndyCar got off to a frenetic start with three races in three weeks, before a week off for the 12 Hours of Sebring. And then March’s Nightcap at thee Oh, so Beautiful Barbers. Saw some drivers and teams race five weeks in-a-row.

 

Before a three weeks gap to Long Beach and an Open test at some ‘lil ‘Ol Oval. (April 28-29) Gave drivers and their teams plenty ‘O time to hunt for Easter Eggs, but I digress…

 

Alas, a month ago now, I began the weekend of March 15th by tuning into Friday’s IndyCar first practice on FOX. Although really didn’t feel like we learned anything.

 

Then began Saturday morning by listening to Chinese GP Sprint race highlights, which Ho Hum, George Russell won, Yawn!

 

Then I “watched”, err listened to the entire IndyCar Qualie’ session on FOX, being my very final TV show before the Spectrum technician arrived to take away my overpriced cable box, having finally “cut the Chord!”

 

Being somewhat surprised with the amount of “air-time” Josef Schlick’ Newgarden got for having to switch to a backup chassis after crashing in practice. Before ScottyMac’, aka Scott McLaughlin crashed in the exact same corner during qualifying, Youch!

 

Have to say I was totally rootin’ for Marcus Ericsson to secure His first IndyCar pole, with two sets ‘O fingers crossed. As believe it was James Hinchcliffe who mentioned Ericsson may be had the advantage of going first in the Fast Six Shootout. Since His tyres and brakes were totally warm, while the other waited. With Marcus having the shortest turn-around time between sessions…

 

One-by-one, they couldn’t go faster than Ericsson. With only Alex Palou, the “Surgeon” waiting to break Ericsson’s Heart! But Palou ended up a half second slower than Ericsson, and the Swede claimed His first pole position in thirteen Gory years, Aye Karumba!

 

During Sunday morning’s pre-race blather. Heard IndyCar Radio’s Ryan Marin say it was Ericsson’s first pole in any discipline in 13 years. Since claiming pole for the June 30, 2013 Silverstone GP2 race. Which interestingly, somebody named Alexander Rossi was also participating in…

 

Actually, it was the day prior (June 29) when Ericsson claimed His second and final pole position of the season driving for DAMS for the Feature race. As the Swede’ won once at Germany’s Nurburgring, with a total of five podiums to finish sixth overall that year.

 

Alexander also claimed one win at Abu Dhabi’s season finale on Yas Isle, starting from pole. With Rossi Finishing ninth overall in the (2013) GP2 championship, driving for Caterham Racing.

 

As it was Rossi’s maiden GP2 win, and the first ever by an American driver. With Rossi claiming three more wins in 2015 for Racing Engineering, enroute to Vice Champion, err runner-up, albeit a distant second to Stoffel Vandoorne.

 

Meanwhile in Shanghai, Andrea Kimi Antonelli claimed His maiden Formula 1 pole in just His 26th Grands Prix. Becoming the sport’s youngest ever pole winner, as a teenager!

 

Antonelli’s pole came at the tender age of 19 years, six months and 18 days. (19yrs 201 days)  The first ever teenager to do so. With the previous record holder being ‘lil Syd Viddle’.

 

As Sebastian Vettel claimed the first of His eventual 53 pole positions at 21 years, two months and 11 days old. (21yrs, 73 days)  At the 2008 Italian Grand Prix, some 18 years ago, Momma Mia!

 

Also the site of where Vettel would win His first Grand Prix for Scuderia toro Rosso at Monza. The Minnowesqe Italian team’s debutante Grand Prix victory! And the first non-Ferrari chassis to do so, since toro rosso was utilizing 2.4-litre V-8 customer Ferrari lumps’.

 

Antonelli becomes the 116^th maiden Grand Prix winner, and the first since Oscar Piastri at Hungary, 2024. The year that both current McLaren F1 drivers scored their maiden Grand Prix wins at, with Lando Norris having done so at the Miami Grand Prix earlier that year…

 

Yet Antonelli wasn’t done setting records yet. Since not only did He go back-to-back with another pole position and win at the Japanese Grand Prix. Kimi also left Suzuka with the drivers point lead, becoming the youngest ever to do so.

 

As move over George, (Russell) Thars’ a New kid in town! 

Team Penske Celebrates 60th anniversary in Style

Mark Donohue’s No. 6 Trans Am Javelin racecar on display at IMS Museum. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Although should we break out  Thin Lizzy’s “The Boys are Back” song for Team Penske’s IndyCar operation yet?

 

Talk about pressure, as the weight of Team Penske sweeping the “Desert Double” at Phoenix Raceway fell solely upon Ryan Blaney’s shoulders. Yet the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Champion didn’t faulter, even after suffering two Pitstop miscues. Including a penalty for being outside of His Pit Box!

 

 Turned on Thy Telie’ with some twelve laps remaining. Planning to “watch”, Err listen again to the We’ve lost Dale Earnhardt 25 Years later program slated for 4PM Pacific.

 

But due to the race having a record 12 cautions, as typical, it went long! And thus I got to hear the FOX TV Booth Boyz’ prattle on about what Blaney needed to do to win the race, who was the favourite after winning last November at Phoenix.

 

Thus I heard Mike Joy say that Blaney had passed 49 cars enroute to victory! His 18th win, capping a “Clean Sweep” weekend for El Capitano’ at Phoenix during His 60th Anniversary celebration.

 

As Friday, High Noon saw Team Penske debutante David Malukas capture His maiden IndyCar pole. Before Josef Schlick’ Newgarden won the IndyCar race Saturday afternoon, with “Big Dave” (Malukas) finishing third.

 

Joey “Sliced Bread” Lagano claimed the NASCAR pole Saturday, before Blaney dramatically swooped past then leader Ty Gibbs with some nine laps remaining for His and Team Penske’s first win of the season…

 

Knowing that Penske Racing didn’t make its Indianapolis 500 debut until May of 1969, I was slightly Cornfuzed over this being El Capitano’s, nee Roger Penske’s 60th year of racing. Although knowing He had “dabbled” in Trans Am with the late Mark Donohue in those nasty Sunoco Chevrolet Camaro Z/28’s,albeit those weren’t until 1967.

 

Thus I’d either forgotten, or more likely unaware that Penske Racing made its “official” debut as a racing team at the inaugural 24 Hours of Daytona on February 5, 1966.

 

Penske entered Chevrolet’s first L88 big block 427cid V-8 Corvette racecar with drivers Dick Guldstand, Ben Moore and George Wintersteen finishing 11th overall and first in the GT Class. Then followed up by finishing an impressive ninth overall and first in the GT Class at the notorious 12 Hours of Sebring!

 

1966 No. 9 Roger Penske Development L88 Corvette restoration

 

As of the “Desert Double” at Phoenix Raceway, Team Penske has amassed a staggering tally of 660 wins! With multiple drivers titles and an unprecedented 20 Indianapolis 500 victories.

 

Mark Donhue scored Penske Racing’s first USAC Championship Car win at Pocono Raceway in 1971. With Newgarden’s w’ being the team’s 247th victory, Aye Darumba!

 

According to my porous Open wheel Racing records. I’ve got Team Penske and Chip Ganassi Racing tied with 17 National Championships apiece, i.e.; USAC, CART, IRL, CCWS and IndyCar. But that’s just my unofficial reckoning…

 

On the NASCAR front, I always associate Rusty Wallace in the Miller Beer No. 2 Stock Car with Team Penske…

 

Thus it was funny learning that Penske Racing actually made its NASCAR debut at Riverside in 1972. With Mark Donohue driving a patriotic red, white and blue AMC Matador, “affectionately” known as the Flying Brick due to its over-square shape.

 

The team dabbled off ‘n on before running its first full season effort with Bobby Allison in 1976, finishing third overall.

 

Rusty Wallace made two starts for Penske in 1980, before the team went on hiatus for eleven years.

 

Penske returned fulltime to NASCAR in 1991. When Wallace brought His Miller Beer sponsorship to Penske from the suspended Raymond Beadle Blue Max operation. With Penske fielding Pontiac’s for Wallace…

 

Ryan Newman scored Team Penske’s first Daytona 500 victory in 2008. With Brad Keselowski scoring the team’s first Cup championship in 2012, its final season with Dodge. Having run the “blue Oval” (Ford) since 2013.

 

Joey Lagano has scored all three of His Cup titles driving for El Capitano aboard those iconic yellow Pennzoil/Shell No. 22 racecars. While the team has  won the Daytona 500, the sports crown jewel three times. As Lagano won in 2015, and Austin Cindric, son of then Team Penske president Tim Cindric was a shock winner in 2022.

 

Mike Joy was quick to point out it was Team Penske’s 157th win when Blaney crossed the stripe Sunday afternoon at Phoenix.

 

Yet Rick Hendrick and His eponymous Hendrick Motorsports have triple Team Penske’s Cup titles with 15. Along with double the Cup victories at 320. As I know sometime last year? Hendrick surpassed “The King”, nee Richard Petty and Petty Enterprises for most career wins in NASCAR.

 

While I would have loved being the proverbial “Fly on the Wall” during the Penske celebration held at His Scottsdale facility. Arse-sumedly His Penske Racing Museum where all six current Team Penske drivers gathered for this momentous occasion…

 

Inside the Hidden Gem of Team Penske Racing History

 

Adding icing to the cake. Porsche Penske Motorsport hqas swept the “36 Hours of Florida” this year. Beginning with a Three-peat for the team’s No. 7 Porsche 963 and Felipe Nasr at the Rolex 24.

 

And then the No. 7 won again at the 12 Hours of Sebring, where Roger Penske was serving as the Grand Marshall. Capping the team’s 661st victory…