On May 24, Courtney Force shared a heartfelt Instagram story highlighting a special moment during the Indianapolis 500 parade. The post featured her husband, racing driver Graham Rahal, along with their daughters Harlan and Tinley Rahal, and fellow competitors Jack Harvey, Rinus VeeKay, and his wife Carmen VeeKay. In the photo, Jack Harvey of Dreyer & Reinbold Racing is seen holding Rahal’s daughters, demonstrating the camaraderie among drivers and their families during the event.
Force expressed gratitude toward Harvey for helping care for their children as the families made their way to the parade, underscoring the close-knit relationships within the racing community. The shared snapshot captures the supportive environment surrounding the drivers as they prepare for the famed Indy 500 race weekend.
A look at Courtney Force’s racing background and family life
Courtney Force is no stranger to racing herself, having competed as a drag racing driver with John Force Racing, her father’s team. Over her career, she earned more than a dozen wins in the Funny Car series, becoming one of the most successful female drivers in the sport’s history before retiring in 2019 to prioritize family time. Since stepping away from professional racing, Force has been focused on raising her daughters alongside Graham Rahal.
Graham Rahal currently drives the No. 15 entry for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, powered by Honda. He began the 2024 IndyCar season showing competitive form, starting with a 21st-place qualification and a 12th-place finish at the season opener, the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg held on March 2. Most recently, Rahal qualified second for the Sonsio Grand Prix on May 10 and crossed the finish line in sixth. His experience and performance set expectations for a strong showing in the upcoming 109th Indianapolis 500, scheduled for May 25.
Graham Rahal’s thoughts on his partnership with Courtney Force in decision-making
Reflecting on his relationship with Courtney Force, Graham Rahal has discussed an “interesting dynamic” they share, especially regarding critical career decisions. Since making his IndyCar debut in 2008, Rahal has faced numerous contract negotiations throughout his racing career. When asked by reporter Eric Smith how he navigates these discussions and whom he trusts most for advice, Rahal candidly revealed the important role his wife plays in this process.
“I consult with my wife (and) with myself. I think it’s a very interesting dynamic. You know, I can’t talk to my dad (Bobby Rahal) about it really. In the end, I did my negotiating through my dad, but really, it was Mike that I worked with, and at the end, it was Mike’s decision. And so, it’s kind of an interesting dynamic for sure. I mean, in the end, I never have once doubted the team.”
—Graham Rahal, IndyCar driver
Given Courtney Force’s own history of racing success and navigating contracts, she has become Graham Rahal’s trusted advisor during important career moves, highlighting their strong personal and professional partnership.
Preparing for the 109th Indianapolis 500 and what lies ahead
The Indianapolis 500, known as one of the most prestigious races in motorsport, will see Graham Rahal start in 30th position with hopes of advancing through the field. The race is set to begin at 12:45 pm ET on May 25 and will air live on FOX. Having shown consistent progress throughout the season, Rahal aims to improve upon his starting spot and deliver a competitive performance for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing.
The moments shared by Courtney Force and Graham Rahal during the parade emphasize the balance between family life and racing demands, while also showcasing the strong community feel among drivers and their loved ones. As the 2024 IndyCar season marches forward, such support from within the Graham Rahal family and their close circle will remain vital to sustaining focus and determination at premier events like the Indy 500.
