Motorsports Industry Remembers Influential Figures of 2025

As the motorsports community reflects on the events of 2025, several prominent figures have been mourned for their significant contributions to the sport. Below is a concise overview of their legacies.

Eddie Jordan (1948-2025)

Eddie Jordan, founder of Jordan Grand Prix, transitioned from a driver in Formula 3 to a notable team owner in Formula 1. His team secured four Grand Prix victories, achieving third in the Constructors’ Championship in 1999. Jordan was pivotal in giving Michael Schumacher his F1 debut in 1991. After selling the team in 2005, he continued to engage with motorsport through media roles.

Shigeaki Hattori (1963-2025)

Japanese racer Shigeaki Hattori spent much of his career in the U.S., moving from Formula Toyota in Japan to compete in Indy Lights and CART. After his driving career, he founded Hattori Racing Enterprises, achieving success in the NASCAR Truck Series, including a championship in 2018.

Lee Kunzman (1944-2025)

A USAC standout, Lee Kunzman battled adversity after suffering severe injuries in crashes during the 1970s. He made notable appearances in the Indianapolis 500, finishing seventh in 1973. As a team manager, he played a crucial role in Hemelgarn Racing’s 1996 Indy 500 win.

Ed Pink (1931-2025)

Known as “The Old Master,” Ed Pink was a leading engine builder in drag racing and expanded into various racing formats, including IndyCar and sports cars. His innovations contributed to multiple championships and over 100 victories in USAC.

Jochen Mass (1946-2025)

German driver Jochen Mass had a successful career in both Formula 1 and sports car racing. He garnered a Grand Prix victory in 1975 with McLaren and made a significant impact at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, winning in 1989 with Team Sauber Mercedes.

Ed Delporte (1971-2025)

A vital electronics engineer for Ed Carpenter Racing, Ed Delporte was honored during the 2025 Indy 500. His career spanned over three decades, highlighting his commitment to the sport even after facing a terminal illness.

Walker Evans (1938-2025)

Regarded as a legend in off-road racing, Walker Evans amassed 12 championships and 142 wins, including prestigious events like the Baja 500. He later ventured into NASCAR’s Truck Series as an owner-driver, securing four top-10 finishes.

Chris Raschke (1964-2025)

Chris Raschke was celebrated in the Land Speed Record community, leading teams and ultimately taking the helm of the Speed Demon following the death of George Poteet. His expertise in fabrication and preparation significantly advanced the sport.

Robbie Brewer (1971-2025)

Veteran stock car racer Robbie Brewer made 311 starts in the Sportsman Division at Bowman Gray Stadium, claiming 11 victories and a championship in 2011.

Humpy Wheeler (1938-2025)

As a transformative promoter, Humpy Wheeler elevated NASCAR’s profile through innovative pre-race shows and was instrumental in its first night race at Charlotte Motor Speedway. He is recognized in multiple motorsports halls of fame.

Additional Notable Figures

Numerous other distinguished personalities from the motorsports world also passed in 2025, including:

• Barry Boes (1971-2025): A competitor in the Trans Am Series and a successful entrepreneur in tech.
• Robert Clarke (1949-2025): Key in establishing Honda’s presence in American motorsports through HPD.
• Bill Davis (1951-2025): Owner of Bill Davis Racing, celebrated for winning the Daytona 500 in 2002.
• Les Unger (1943-2025): Managed Toyota’s American motorsport programs for three decades.
• Al Speyer (1952-2025): Helped re-establish Bridgestone/Firestone in American open-wheel racing.
• Allan Pagan (1955-2025): One of the original Indy Racing League entrants with a notable team history.

The motorsports industry continues to move forward, building on the legacies left by these influential figures in 2025.