A. J. Foyt

Date of Birth: January 16, 1935

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Biography

Anthony Joseph Foyt Jr., known as A. J. Foyt, is an American retired auto racing driver who is widely regarded as one of the greatest race car drivers in the history of American motorsports. Born in Houston, Texas, Foyt’s career spanned four decades, during which he achieved unparalleled success in various racing disciplines, including IndyCar, NASCAR, and sports car racing. Foyt’s versatility and sheer talent behind the wheel earned him numerous accolades. He is best known for his record four victories at the Indianapolis 500 (1961, 1964, 1967, and 1977). His success wasn’t confined to open-wheel racing; he also won the Daytona 500 in 1972 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1967. Foyt retired from professional racing in 1993 but has remained active in the sport as a team owner. Foyt’s racing career is marked by his fearless driving style and his ability to adapt to different types of cars and racing conditions. His contributions to motorsport have been recognized with numerous awards, including induction into several Halls of Fame. Beyond racing, Foyt has faced and overcome significant health challenges, including severe injuries from racing accidents and multiple surgeries.

5 Interesting Facts about A. J. Foyt

1. A. J. Foyt is the only driver to win the Indianapolis 500, the Daytona 500, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

2. Foyt was the first driver to qualify for 35 consecutive Indianapolis 500 races from 1958 to 1992.

3. He has won a total of 67 USAC (United States Auto Club) races, making him the all-time leader in USAC wins.

4. Despite his numerous injuries, including severe burns and a broken back, Foyt continued to race and win.

5. Foyt’s racing team, A.J. Foyt Enterprises, continues to compete in the IndyCar Series, contributing to the sport’s future.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from A. J. Foyt

1. “The race is never over until it’s over.”

2. “I’ve always wanted to win, and I think it shows.”

3. “You don’t race cars for the money, you race because you love it.”

4. “When I raced, I didn’t care if I lived or died. The only thing that mattered was winning.”

5. “Racing is the best medicine for me.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, A. J. Foyt’s net worth was estimated to be around $35 million.

Children

A. J. Foyt has four children: Tony Foyt, Terry Foyt, Jerry Foyt, and Larry Foyt. Larry Foyt is notable for following in his father’s footsteps and has been involved in racing as a driver and team manager.