The forced retirement on medical grounds of Dario Franchitti has brought to an end the racing career of one of Britain’s most successful drivers of the modern era of International motorsport.
As skilled as he was on track (three-time Indy 500 winner, four-time Indycar Champion, 31 wins) he was also a pure ‘racer’, a breed of “have car, will race”. So besides his Indy wins, add in victories in the Daytona 24 Hours and the Sebring 12 Hours. Plus we know he loves his motorsport history, so we are big fans of Dario here at Motorsport Retro.
Off the track, the tributes have poured in, from Formula 1 down, and one thing that shines through is the respect the Scotsman has among his peers. This emotional five-minute video compiled by Indianapolis Motor Speedway shows just how he is perceived, and the warmth of affection.
Shortly before his accident at Houston, Franchitti completed his first book, Romance of Racing with Andy Hallbery , a friend and contributor to Motorsport Retro. In the book Dario writes about his personal legends, heroes and legends, with true insight and reverence. He would never see himself among the drivers he selected for the book, but not only does he have a well-earned place there, he has a group of friends for life. And judging by this video, their favourite word to describe their comrade is: LEGEND. Watch this, smile and cry, and look back at the wonderful career of Dario Franchitti.
Romance of Racing, a 136-page book by Dario Franchitti is available now via Amazon by clicking here
“Thank you, it was fun!” – Dario Franchitti
Video: Thank You Dario Franchitti is a post from Motorsport Retro, bringing you classic motorsport, cars, motorcycles and gear every day.