Parnelli Jones, Indy 500 champ and racing great, dies at age 90

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — Parnelli Jones, the versatile 1963 Indianapolis 500 champion who is regarded one of the greatest American racers of all time, has died.

Jones passed away Tuesday at his home in Torrance, Calif. Tributes poured in from throughout the motorsports world regarding Jones., including from Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IndyCar owner Roger Penske:

“The racing world has lost a great competitor and a true champion. Parnelli Jones was one of the most accomplished racers in history. His determination and will to win made him one of the toughest competitors I have ever seen. From racing against him on track to competing against him as a fellow team owner, I always respected Parnelli’s passion and commitment to the sport he loved. I was proud to call Parnelli a good friend for many years. And our thoughts are with his family as we remember one of the true legends of motorsports.”

J. Douglas Boles, the president of Indianapolis Motor Speedway also issued this statement:

“In over 115 years of racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, there have been many iconic moments and a handful of iconic drivers. Parnelli Jones was a total icon, both for his driving skill and the magical moments he created in the Indianapolis 500. He will always be known for his speed, talent and fearless approach. And for his personal demeanor and character.”

Boles regarded Jones’ feats at the track. Jones was the first to break 150 mph in qualifying at the track. He nearly won the 1967 Indianapolis 500 with an STP turbine engine. As a car owner, Jones also went to victory lane in the 1970 and 1971 Indy 500s with Al Unser driving.

“His fingerprints on our sport go well beyond the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. A winner in virtually everything on wheels including USAC, NASCAR and off-road racing, he is truly one of the most versatile competitors the sport has ever seen. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends,” Boles said.

Parnelli Jones won the 1971 and 1972 Baja 1000 races. Jones won the 1960 Midwest Sprint Car, 1961-62 Sprint Car and 1964 Stock Car championships in USAC.

Jones also won a championship in Trans Am competition where he fiercely battled Dan Gurney.

“There are very, very few people in America, who have had the depth of success that Parnell has had. And the breadth of how many different kinds of cars and trucks he’s won in. You know, he’s very close to being one of a kind. And I would hope that everybody’s Mount Rushmore of American race drivers has a place in it,” Mike Joy told TRE.

Parnelli Jones was 90 years old.