IndyCar launche a groundbreaking concept called “The Million Dollar Race” for the upcoming 2024 season. There are discussions within the IndyCar community urging Red Bull to consider swapping Checo Perez for a talented IndyCar driver.
It’s with a heavy heart that we share the sad news of the unexpected passing of Brazilian racing icon Gil de Ferran. The two-time IndyCar champion and winner of the 2003 Indianapolis 500 tragically lost his life at the age of 56 during a race at The Concours Club circuit in Opa-Locka, Florida. The incident was a result of a sudden heart attack, marking a devastating turn of events for the racing community.
Fans will always recall De Ferran not just for his accomplishments in American sports, but also for his significant role alongside Fernando Alonso during the Spaniard’s Indy 500 endeavors. McLaren appointed him as a coach to mentor Alonso during his initial attempt in 2017, and he continued to support him in the challenging 2019 and 2020 races.
His greatest sporting milestone: the Indy 500 in 2003
Gil de Ferran achieved his greatest sporting milestone in 2003, when he beat his compatriot Helio Castroneves in a Penske (achieved by a mere 0.299 seconds, preventing Castroneves from being the man with the most victories in the legendary American race).
Moreover, Gil de Ferran is the holder of the all-time track speed record in American single-seater racing with a lap of 241.428 miles (388.54 kilometers) per hour.