Foyt and next to another former race winner, Bobby Unser. He started second alongside pole-sitter A.J. The expectations suddenly changed when a horrific crash in practice left Andretti with facial burns and forced him into a backup car without the Lotus engine he brought to the track. After a piston problem forced him out just two laps into the 1968 race, he returned to the Brickyard in 1969 as the favorite. He finished third as a rookie in 1965 then won Indy’s pole each of the next two years. It’s very unfair, trust me, but it’s a fact.”Īndretti learned the significance of winning this race quickly. “It’s just euphoria when you cross that finish line first because it means so much for your career. “What this race brings to you career wise, it’s worth it,” the elder Andretti said. Foyt were named co-Drivers of the Century by The Associated Press.īut his career has largely been defined by what happened in his 29 Indy 500 starts – and that unlikely trip to victory lane. He captured four USAC titles, the IROC championship in 1979, even a national dirt track crown in 1974.
Andretti won the 1967 Daytona 500, the 1972 24 Hours of Daytona and the 1978 world championship. Super Mario celebrated many victories during a career that first began as a secret from the parents who moved the family from Italy to the United States in 1955.Įventually, he made 407 Ind圜ar starts, won 67 poles and led 7,595 laps – all series records. You know it was the most popular win he ever had.” “I think it’s so cool he appreciates it, to see him get honored like this. “I know it’s special to him,” said Michael Andretti, the oldest of Mario’s three children.
When he’s not busy signing autographs, posing for photos or taking fans for a ride in Ind圜ar’s two-seater, there are countless interview requests.Īt age 79, one of the greatest drivers in racing history is revered as much today as he was all those years ago. There’s even a Mario Andretti Store, right next to the track’s famous pagoda. Anyone who strolls through Gasoline Alley needs a metal badge with Andretti’s image to get inside. Fans driving through the main gate to Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s infield will pass large banners commemorating the 50th anniversary of Andretti’s first and only Indianapolis 500 win. Mario Andretti Drive has temporarily replaced the Washington Street sign in downtown Indianapolis.
His face, his race car number, that familiar STP logo, they all appear on an endless array of shirts and jackets, clocks and flags, posters and coasters. INDIANAPOLIS – Mario Andretti sees the reminders of 1969 everywhere these days.
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