Danica Patrick, a legendary figure in the IndyCar series, competed from 2005 to 2018, with her final appearance at the 2018 Indianapolis 500 marking the end of her racing career. Ahead of this last race, Patrick spoke candidly about her return to IndyCar after years in NASCAR, sharing her feelings and reflections during the race weekend.
Patrick discussed the process of reacclimating to the unique demands of IndyCar racing after her stint in stock car racing. She emphasized the comfort and familiarity she felt at Indianapolis, stating, “It does (feel like home) because I’m staying at my parents’ house. So that really helps you feel like you’re at home. She is helping feed my dogs and feed me dinner and all kinds of things. It always feels like home here at Indy. The track feels so familiar. Everything from the walk to and from the pit lane”.
Danica Patrick’s connection to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is deep-rooted, both personally and professionally. She made her IndyCar debut in 2005, earning the title of Indy 500 Rookie of the Year. In her final Indy 500 outing in 2018, she finished 30th in the grueling 200-lap race, bringing her storied racing journey to a close.
Patrick’s legacy in motorsports is significant. She remains the only woman to win a race in the IndyCar Series, claiming victory at the 2008 Indy Japan 300. Over her IndyCar career, she achieved one Grand Prix win, seven podium finishes, and three pole positions in 116 appearances. In NASCAR, she competed in 191 Cup Series races, securing seven top-10 finishes and one pole position.
Beyond her racing achievements, Patrick has often spoken about her admiration for other motorsport legends. Earlier in 2018, she expressed her respect for the late Formula 1 champion Ayrton Senna, stating she would have liked to test her skills against him. “I think I’d probably wanna see how I stacked up against Ayrton Senna, which was, he was one of the greats in Formula 1. Maybe get out there and door bang with Dale Earnhardt Sr,” Patrick remarked, highlighting her competitive spirit and reverence for racing icons.
Since retiring in 2018, Danica Patrick has transitioned to a successful career as a motorsport pundit and podcast host, continuing to influence and inspire within the racing community.
