Scott Dixon, the veteran driver for Chip Ganassi Racing, surpassed Mario Andretti’s long-standing IndyCar career start record by making his 408th appearance at last week’s Indy 500. This milestone marks Dixon’s remarkable longevity in America’s premier open-wheel racing series, a career that began in 2001 and includes six drivers’ championships.
To honor this achievement, Dixon was presented with a special memorabilia commemorating his record-breaking participation. Currently 44 years old, Dixon continues to compete at a high level, sitting seventh in the 2025 IndyCar drivers‘ standings, with ten races still left in the season.
Mario Andretti’s Reflections on Dixon’s Record Achievement
Mario Andretti, one of motorsport’s most iconic champions, expressed his congratulations to Dixon upon hearing that his career start record had been broken. Andretti wrote:
“Congratulations! You are just breaking another one of my records (laughs). But this is a good thing,” Records are made to be broken, and no better than a champion like yourself. 407… now you’re going for 408, you and I know what it takes to reach a record like this.
“You have to be truly blessed in this business, as competitive as it is, I’m looking at yourself and your career, right now, you are a force in the sport like you’ve been from the beginning.”
Andretti’s own racing legacy includes four IndyCar championships, 52 wins, 141 podium finishes, 65 pole positions, as well as a 1978 Formula 1 World Championship and a victory at the 1969 Indianapolis 500. While Andretti has long retired from racing, Dixon remains active with a leading team, Chip Ganassi Racing, pursuing further success this season.
Significance of Dixon’s Record in the IndyCar Championship
Scott Dixon’s record of 408 career starts at the Indy 500 highlights his exceptional endurance and consistency in the sport. He stands just one championship shy of AJ Foyt’s record of seven IndyCar titles, underscoring his position among the sport’s all-time great drivers. As the 2025 season continues, Dixon’s ongoing performance with Chip Ganassi Racing will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, reflecting his determination to add to his impressive racing legacy.
