
Roger Penske (2016)
Roger Penske was one of America's most successful young road racers before electing to retire from driving in 1965 to focus on his first business - a Philadelphia Chevrolet dealership. However, racing remained a key element in Penske's overall business plan and he formed his own team. Beginning as Roger Penske Racing in 1966, competing in sports car and endurance events, Team Penske has grown into one of the most successful racing teams - and sports organizations - in the world. The team won its class in the 24 Hours of Daytona in its first start and since then Team Penske has produced more than 620 wins, over 680 pole positions and 44 championships. Those totals include a historic 19 Indianapolis 500 victories, three Daytona 500 wins and the distinction of being the last American constructor to win a Formula One race, coming in 1976 with driver John Watson. More than 50 drivers have won a race for Roger Penske's teams over the 57-year history of Team Penske and the organization continues to produce at a remarkable rate at the highest levels of motorsports. Team Penske has won 12 championships over the last six seasons of competition. In 2019, Roger Penske was also inducted into the prestigious NASCAR Hall of Fame.