The IZOD IndyCar Series grand finale in Las Vegas could have been a time to celebrate but with the tragic death of Dan Whelon, the occasion turned into what surely will become a black Sunday for the sport.
Two-time Indy 500 winner and 2004 Indycar Series champion Dan Wheldon has died after succumbing to fatal injuries suffered in a horrific crash involving 14 cars on Lap 10 of the IndyCar finale at Las Vegas. The Briton was airlifted to the University Medical Center for immediate attention but two hours after the accident, IndyCar CEO Randy Bernard confirmed what everybody had feared that of Wheldon's passing. Bernard also informed everyone in the press room that the race had been officially ended and that it was to be replaced by a 5-lap salute to the deceased with all remaining cars and drivers present. The tragic loss is not unlike what happened in 1999 when Greg Moore was killed during the season's finale in Fontana. As it was the case for Moore, Wheldon was being recognized as among one of the most popular drivers amongst the drivers in the series. Like Moore also, who had signed a contract to join powerhouse Team Penske the year after, Wheldon was set to replace Danica Patrick at Andretti Autosport with the support of Go Daddy.com. Although, he had been without a full-time ride in 2011, Wheldon kept busy with winning his second Indy 500 last may with Bryan Herta Motorsports before being hired by the Indycar Series as the official test pilot hired to drive the new Dallara chassis that will be used next year. Ironically, Dan Wheldon was killed as he was attempting to win the series' $5 million promotion organized as a publicity stunt to get the series in the news.... The championship battle between Dario Franchitti and Will Power ended up in favor of the Scot's after Power had to retire having been involved in the crash. Rookie of the Year honors went to Canadian James Hinchcliffe, his main rival JR Hilderbrand having been transported to the medical center after experiencing disorientation following also the crash.
Recent Articles
|
Racing Multimedia
Recommendations |