The 2025 INDYCAR season is gearing up to be another exhilarating one following the thrilling events of the 2024 season, where seven different drivers emerged victorious in 17 total races, culminating in a championship showdown at the season finale. With the upcoming INDYCAR season set to kick off on March 2 on FOX, and all races scheduled to be broadcast on FOX networks, the excitement is palpable. As fans eagerly await the action on the track, it’s only natural to reflect on the history of the sport and celebrate the legendary drivers who have left an indelible mark on INDYCAR racing.
The Legends of INDYCAR Racing: Top 10 Greatest Drivers of All Time
10. Johnny Rutherford: A Trailblazer on the Track
Johnny Rutherford, who made his debut in 1962, quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in INDYCAR racing. With 315 races under his belt, Rutherford secured pole position 23 times and clinched victory in 27 races. His crowning achievements include three Indianapolis 500 wins, a feat matched by only a select few drivers in the sport’s history.
9. Dario Franchitti: A Champion Among Champions
Dario Franchitti’s name is synonymous with excellence in INDYCAR racing. Over the course of 265 starts, Franchitti amassed an impressive collection of accolades, including four championships, 31 wins, 92 podium finishes, and 33 pole positions. His legacy as one of the sport’s greats is cemented by his remarkable consistency and success on the track.
8. Will Power: Setting Records and Making History
Will Power’s impressive career in INDYCAR racing is marked by his record-breaking achievements. With 302 starts to his name, Power boasts two championships and an astounding 44 race wins. His 70 pole positions stand as a testament to his unmatched skill and prowess behind the wheel, solidifying his status as a legend in the sport.
7. Al Unser Jr.: A Living Legend of Long Beach
Al Unser Jr.’s legacy in INDYCAR racing is intricately tied to the iconic Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, where he holds the record for the most wins with six victories over eight years. With two Indianapolis 500 wins to his name, Unser’s illustrious career is a testament to his enduring talent and tenacity on the track.
6. Michael Andretti: A Champion On and Off the Track
Michael Andretti’s impact on INDYCAR racing extends beyond his impressive record of 42 wins and 32 pole positions. As the owner of Andretti Autosport, Andretti continues to shape the future of the sport while honoring his storied past. His dominance in the 1991 season, where he clinched the championship with eight wins and eight poles, remains a defining moment in his career.
5. Rick Mears: The Master of the Indy 500
Rick Mears’ legacy as a four-time winner of the Indianapolis 500 speaks volumes about his skill and expertise on the track. With six pole positions and a record-breaking career earnings milestone, Mears’ impact on INDYCAR racing is immeasurable. His ability to consistently perform at the highest level cements his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
4. Al Unser: A Titan of the Indy 500
Al Unser’s four victories at the Indianapolis 500 place him in elite company, with his consistent success at the prestigious event setting him apart from his peers. With a remarkable record of top-three finishes in 11 different races, Unser’s legacy at the Indy 500 is a testament to his skill and endurance as a driver.
3. Scott Dixon: A Modern-Day Champion
Scott Dixon’s remarkable career is highlighted by his six INDYCAR championships and 58 career wins, making him one of the most successful drivers in the sport’s history. As the longest-tenured driver at Chip Ganassi Racing, Dixon’s consistency and competitiveness on the track set him apart as a true legend of INDYCAR racing.
2. A.J. Foyt: The Ultimate Champion
A.J. Foyt’s unparalleled success in INDYCAR racing is underscored by his seven championships and four Indianapolis 500 wins, a record that still stands today. Foyt’s ability to adapt and thrive in different eras of the sport exemplifies his exceptional talent and enduring legacy as a true icon of INDYCAR racing.
1. Mario Andretti: A Legend Among Legends
Mario Andretti’s enduring legacy in INDYCAR racing is a testament to his unparalleled success and longevity in the sport. With four championships, 52 wins, 67 pole positions, and 141 podium finishes, Andretti’s impact on INDYCAR racing is unmatched. His unique achievement of winning the Daytona 500, Indy 500, and Formula One world title solidifies his status as one of the greatest drivers in motorsport history.
As we celebrate the rich history and remarkable achievements of these legendary drivers, we are reminded of the indelible impact they have had on the sport of INDYCAR racing. Their skill, dedication, and passion for racing continue to inspire generations of fans and drivers alike, shaping the future of the sport for years to come.
