David Letterman and the Thrill of IndyCar Racing

The legendary television host David Letterman continues to make waves in the auto racing world as a co-owner of an IndyCar team. His ties to the Indianapolis 500 run deep, with a history that began long before his fame as a talk show host. As the 2025 Indianapolis 500 approaches, Letterman’s presence on the racing circuit is felt once more.

The Journey Begins: Letterman Enters IndyCar Ownership

David Letterman became an owner in the IndyCar series back in 2004, around the midpoint of his illustrious run on CBS. Partnering with former champion Bobby Rahal, they founded Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing (RLL). Letterman, now 78 years old, reminisces about listening to the race on the radio as a child, a tradition that sparked his lifelong passion for the sport.

“The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” is not just a tagline for Letterman; it’s a title that encapsulates his fond memories of the Indy 500. This year’s race, scheduled for May 25, promises to reignite that spark as he returns to his hometown of Indianapolis.

Success on the Track: Indy 500 Victories

Fans often wonder whether David Letterman’s racing team has tasted victory at the Indianapolis 500. The answer is a resounding yes! His team, in its various iterations, has celebrated wins, with Buddy Rice capturing the title in 2004 under Rahal Letterman Racing and Takuma Sato winning it in 2020 under Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing.

This year, Letterman’s RLL team will field four drivers, each bringing their unique skills to the race:

Takuma Sato: A two-time Indy 500 champion, Sato qualified second and will be starting prominently in the race.
Devlin DeFrancesco: The Canadian driver is making his first Indy 500 appearance, qualifying 16th.
Louis Foster: The rookie driver from Britain looks forward to making his debut, starting 20th.
Graham Rahal: A seasoned veteran and son of Bobby Rahal, he will start 28th in the race.

Letterman’s Relationship with IndyCar

In a recent conversation, Letterman revealed how he developed a friendship with Bobby Rahal, which eventually led to his involvement in racing. He recalls closely following Rahal’s rise to dominance in IndyCar, and their camaraderie blossomed from shared experiences at various races across the country.

The Indianapolis 500 holds a particular sentiment for Letterman, who shared anecdotes about attending his first race in 1966 while he was still a university student. He reminisced about packing a large suitcase with beer to enjoy the race, echoing the light-hearted spirit he often displayed on his show.

The 2025 Indianapolis 500: What to Expect

The 2025 Indianapolis 500 is shaping up to be another thrilling chapter in racing history. Viewers can catch all the action on May 25, with live coverage starting at 10 a.m. ET on FOX. David Letterman’s team of talented drivers is primed for a competitive run, and his enthusiasm for the event is sure to inspire many fans.

Conclusion

As David Letterman continues to immerse himself in the thrilling world of IndyCar racing, his legacy transcends the talk show realm. From a fan to a champion team owner, Letterman’s journey reflects his unwavering passion for the sport and his deep connection to the Indianapolis 500.

FAQs About David Letterman and IndyCar Racing

What is David Letterman’s role in IndyCar racing?

David Letterman is a co-owner of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing and has been involved in the IndyCar series since 2004.

How many times has Letterman’s team won the Indy 500?

Letterman’s team has won the Indianapolis 500 twice, with wins in 2004 and 2020.

Who are the drivers for Letterman’s team in the 2025 Indy 500?

This year, the team will field Takuma Sato, Devlin DeFrancesco, Louis Foster, and Graham Rahal.

What are some of David Letterman’s memories of the Indy 500?

Letterman often shares fond memories of listening to the race with his family on the radio and attending his first race in 1966 as a student.

Where can I watch the 2025 Indianapolis 500?

The 2025 Indianapolis 500 will be broadcast live on FOX starting at 10 a.m. ET on May 25.