Motorsport Icon’s Legacy Reverberates Across Racing Community
Two-time CART champion Gil de Ferran, famed for his 2003 Indy 500 victory, passed away at 56. His legacy spans continents.
Starting in British Formula Ford, de Ferran’s rise culminated in back-to-back CART titles in 2000 and 2001. In 2003, he clinched the Indianapolis 500 for Roger Penske, marking the pinnacle of his 1995-2003 IndyCar/CART career.
De Ferran not only secured five wins in the 2009 American Le Mans Series but also set a record for the fastest closed circuit qualifying speed at 241.428mph.
Team Penske owner, Roger Penske expressed deep sorrow, acknowledging Gil’s class, both as a driver and a gentleman, emphasizing his indelible impact on motorsports. Penske shared this following quote;
“Gil defined class as a driver and as a gentleman. As an IndyCar champion and an Indianapolis 500 winner, Gil accomplished so much during his career, both on and off the track. Gil was beloved by so many. He was a great friend to the Team Penske and IndyCar family, as well as the entire international motorsports community. Gil’s passing is a terrible loss, and he will be deeply missed.”
Beyond his racing career, de Ferran served as Sporting Director for BAR-Honda and later McLaren. His influence extended far beyond the track. In 2021, de Ferran returned to McLaren as a consultant, leaving an enduring mark.
Gil de Ferran’s passing is a profound loss, echoing through the racing community. His memory lives on as a motorsport legend. He is survived by, his wife Angela, daughter Anna, and son Luke. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire de Ferran family during this time.
Article by AutomotiveWoman Insider & Editor, Juliana Chiovitti aka @AutomotiveWoman
IMAGES: INDYCAR
Subscribe to our channel: www.youtube.com/@AutomotiveWoman
