Racing enthusiasts around the world are mourning the loss of legendary driver Gil de Ferran, who tragically passed away at the age of 56. The 2003 Indianapolis 500 winner died while racing with his son, Luke, at The Concourse Club in Opa-Locka, Florida.
The news of de Ferran’s death was confirmed by several of his colleagues in the racing industry. The racing icon reportedly suffered a heart attack while on a private course at the club. Unfortunately, attempts to revive him were unsuccessful.
De Ferran, known for his exceptional talent and achievements, was a beloved figure in motorsports. He won the Indianapolis 500 for Team Penske, marking the team’s third consecutive victory in the prestigious race. Recognized for his class and sportsmanship, de Ferran was held in high regard among his peers and the international racing community.
Roger Penske, the owner of Team Penske and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, expressed sorrow at the tragic loss. He extended his thoughts and prayers to de Ferran’s family, including his wife Angela, their children Anna and Luke, and the entire de Ferran family.
Fellow driver Tony Kanaan, devastated by de Ferran’s untimely passing, fondly remembered their friendship and shared experiences. Kanaan spoke highly of de Ferran’s mentorship and friendship, emphasizing that the racing legend went out in true Gil style—behind the wheel of a racecar.
De Ferran’s contributions to motorsports extended beyond his success on the track. As a former IndyCar Champion and Indianapolis 500 winner, he leaves behind a legacy that inspired many in the sport. His career highlights include seven CART race victories, five IndyCar wins, and a second-place finish in the 2003 standings.
De Ferran’s achievements were not limited to open-wheel racing. He also excelled in the American Le Mans Series, where he finished as the runner-up in the LMP1 class in 2009 while driving for his self-owned de Ferran Motorsports team.
Born on November 11, 1967, in Paris, France, de Ferran’s racing journey began in the 1980s with kart racing. Throughout his career, he consistently showcased his talent and determination, setting the closed-course land speed record during CART with a lap of 241.428 mph—an impressive feat that still stands today.
De Ferran joined Team Penske in 2000, solidifying his reputation as a top driver. His accomplishments earned him the respect and admiration of both fans and fellow competitors. Marco Andretti, one of many who mourned the loss, described de Ferran as “one of the real ones” and acknowledged the impact he had on his own career.
The legacy of Gil de Ferran will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and admired his remarkable talent. As the racing world mourns this great loss, we remember him for his contributions to the sport and the inspiration he provided to countless aspiring drivers.
