Roger Penske, the legendary owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the IndyCar racing series, celebrated his 20th Indianapolis 500 victory as a team owner this past Sunday, reaffirming his status as one of the most successful figures in motorsports. At 87 years old, Penske proved that age is just a number as he continues to dominate the racing world.
The month of May started off on a rocky note for Penske’s racing team, as they were embroiled in a cheating scandal involving illegal use of software during the first IndyCar race in St. Petersburg, Florida. Driver Josef Newgarden was stripped of his win as a result, adding to the challenges Penske faced leading up to the Indy 500.
Despite the setbacks, Penske’s team persevered and Newgarden clinched the victory in this year’s Indy 500 after a four-hour weather delay, marking his second consecutive win at the prestigious event. For Penske, also known as “the Captain” in the IndyCar world, the win was a significant milestone as it extended his record for wins at the iconic race as a team owner.
Penske’s success in the racing world is complemented by his prowess as a businessman, as he controls various transportation businesses, including a major chain of automobile dealerships. Although he sold his auto racing tracks in the late 1990s, Penske made a comeback in 2019 when he purchased the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, further solidifying his influence in the industry.
With ownership of the IndyCar series, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and a leading racing team, Penske’s involvement in the sport raises questions of conflict of interest. However, his dedication to IndyCar has been instrumental in keeping the series running smoothly over the past five years, ensuring its continued success and popularity among racing fans.
As IndyCar racing faces uncertainty in the future, Penske’s recent victory at the Indy 500 serves as a reminder of his enduring legacy in the sport. Despite his age, the Lion in Winter continues to defy expectations and achieve greatness, leaving a lasting impact on the world of motorsports for years to come.
