Dear INDYCAR Family,
Thank you. It’s hard to find the right words to really express the gratitude that I feel. It’s incredible to know that so many people also care so much about Justin, Julia and their daughters. I want each of you to know how thankful I am for how much you’ve cared for people I care about so deeply.
Julia and the girls were the most important thing to Justin. He dedicated all of his time to work hard and support his family. The support from the INDYCAR community is so special because you’ve made all of us feel so loved, and it’s taken an entire community of love to even compare to the way Justin made us feel. Nothing will ever fill the void we feel for Justin, but the kindnesses we’ve received in the recent months has allowed for us to grieve while you all have helped secure the future for his family.
In one of the tribute videos, Justin said his best job outside of the car was being a dad. This has been especially meaningful now, as so many of you have helped fill that role in supporting his children. Justin was doing everything he could in his career to be successful and support his family. It’s one of many great lessons I learned from him. In his absence, I want to be as supportive of them as I can and I’m so thankful that our extended family in the racing community helped me get started in this effort.
Justin’s legacy will live on through his children. You’ve helped us move forward by supporting the Wilson Children’s Fund.
I’m extremely grateful to everyone involved in the online auction. Whether you donated an item, placed a bid or assisted in running the auction, you were all very important to making it successful. It probably wouldn’t have taken off without Graham Rahal. I’ll never find the right words to express my gratitude to Graham, but he has clearly shown how much Justin meant to him by doing so much for Justin’s family. Thank you, Graham.
An auction like this took so much work, from the organizers at eBay and Auction Cause who donated their time and waived fees, to the people who coordinated each shipment, to those who placed bids and organized every item. This was a labor of love and I’m grateful beyond comprehension for your volunteered time and efforts. Everyone was so committed to not only sorting through logistics, but making sure it was properly promoted and I’m truly thankful to everyone who allowed this to become a successful event. Many thanks to eBay, Auction Cause, Marshall Pruett, Heather Carpenter, Joel Nelson, Liz Power, Alexander Wurz, Allan McNish, Marino Franchitti, Will Buxton, Leigh Diffey, Mike Shank and many, many others who were dedicated to this cause.
It was shocking but so special to see so many unique items come through for the auction, like Patsy White’s signed Greg Moore memorabilia, a Dan Wheldon race-worn helmet and all the donated INDYCAR driver helmets, as well as all the Formula One teams that helped. It honestly made me feel guilty that so many of the donated items had sentimental value. I’m speechless and forever grateful that you would let go of something special to show your love for Justin and his family.
It’s also been so humbling to see the silent displays of support from the hundreds of people who donated directly to the fund and from people who bought and wore tribute T-shirts, and not just because it helped raise money. The kind words online with photos of friends in the INDYCAR family wearing T-shirts has been so heartwarming in letting us know that people continue to care and that Justin is still being represented in special and unique ways. It has been overwhelming and awesome to see so much support at every racetrack from INDYCAR and other racing series since August. It’s important to me after all of these months that Justin’s legacy lives on with all of this kindness.
I have known for years that I have a great and caring family with my parents, Justin, Julia, Jane and Jessica. I now know that my family extends far beyond bloodlines, to each and every one of you in the racing community. I truly consider all of you a part of the Wilson family and will forever remember the love and compassion you have shown. While it seems like not nearly enough, I wish to thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Stefan Wilson
With a collaboration that included eBay, the Graham Rahal Foundation, and Auction Cause, as well as the tireless efforts of groups and individuals to maximize the success of the auction, the effort was an apt reflection of the wide respect and admiration earned by Verizon IndyCar Series driver Justin Wilson, who lost his life in August. The funds from the effort will go to help the Wilson Children’s Fund (wilsonchildrensfund.com).
UK-based Auction Options also Available
29 September—Hello and thank you again for your support of the Wilson Children’s Fund.
We wanted to reach out and make sure you knew that the Justin Wilson Memorial Celebration, a private event that will be hosted at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Tuesday, will be streamed live (4:00 PM, ET) via www.indycar.com. Please join as some of Justin’s teammates, competitors, friends, and family will be a part of celebrating some cherished memories from their time with Wilson.
Additionally there is some news from the eBay auction that we wanted to pass along. With the first wave of helmet offerings having closed, there has been a new wave of driver suits, helmets, and other items now listed on the site http://ebay.to/1K1yiY5. There will continue to be a new range of auction items becoming available, including some very reasonably priced options to come!
We are also pleased to let you know that there is now an easier way for folks in the UK to help out. If you have an item that you feel would be an appropriate addition to the auction, please email wilsonchildrensfund@gmail.com to find out information about what will be needed to go with the items and where to send them.
Thank you again for your time, support, and good wishes.
Wilson Children’s Fund
The funeral of Justin Wilson will take place on Thursday 10 September at 11.45 at St James the Great Church, High Street, Paulerspury, Northamptonshire, NN12 7NA and afterwards in Hall 5, The Wing, Silverstone Circuit, NN12 8TN.
Flowers or donations to the Wilson Children’s Fund to be sent to John White Funeral Directors, 188/190 Watling Street, Towcester, NN12 6DB (cheques to “John White Funeral Directors, Donations Wilson”).
Alternatively, donations can be made online at www.justinwilson.co.uk/donate.
Everyone who knew Justin is welcome to join his family but to help with catering numbers it would be appreciated if anyone planning to attend could e-mail lisa.davis@msv.com
Thank you-
Indianapolis, IN (28 August 2015)
With the racing world rallying to offer their support, progress has been made with the Wilson Children’s Fund, which is now able to accept support electronically.
Please visit http://wilsonchildrensfund.com.
Reflecting the depth of respect that Justin Wilson engendered, the response to his passing has been a global one, with the universal desire to focus on providing support for his surviving family.
Honda has pledged to support the fund based on laps completed by all Honda entries in this weekend’s GoPro Grand Prix of Sonoma Verizon IndyCar Series season finale at Sonoma Raceway.
In addition to a range of initiatives to raise funds including donation of sales from tribute decals and tee-shirts, drivers from around the globe have pledged to make their race-worn helmets available for auction to support the fund, with further details to be announced soon.
Thank you for the incredible response.Donations to the Wilson Children’s Fund may also be made via:
Wilson Children’s Fund
c/o Forum Credit Union
PO Box 50738
Indianapolis, IN 46250-0738
Phone: (317) 558-6000
For UK based supporters who wish to send cards and other condolences to Justin’s family you may use the address below:
Keith Wilson c/o Lisa Davis
PalmerSport
The Old Post Office
Worthing Road
Southwater
West Sussex
RH13 9EZ
Indianapolis, Ind. 26 August 2015- On behalf of the entire Wilson family, thank you for the outpouring of support from around the world. We would like to share some new details about the Wilson Children’s Fund.
An account has been established on behalf of the Wilson family. Those wishing to provide support are asked to send their consideration to the following address:
Wilson Children’s Fund
c/o Forum Credit Union
PO Box 50738
Indianapolis, IN 46250-0738
Phone: (317) 558-6000
All correspondence that had been previously sent to IndyCar will be forwarded to that address.
We are working to soon be able to provide an electronic option as well for fans to contribute on-line, thank you for your support and patience.
Additionally, commemorative decals and tee-shirts have been designed, with the proceeds going directly to the Wilson Children’s Fund: http://shop.ims.com/indycar/drivers/justin-wilson/
They can either put their letter/card in its envelope in a separate envelope addressed as below, or simply address it to, for example, Mr and Mrs Keith Wilson c/o Lisa Davis etc.
Lisa Davis
PalmerSport
The Old Post Office
Worthing Road
Southwater
West Sussex
RH13 9EZ
Allentown, Penn.
24 August 2015
With deep sadness, the parents of Justin Wilson, Keith and Lynne, his wife Julia, and his brother Stefan share the news that Justin passed away today after succumbing to injuries suffered during the Verizon IndyCar event at Pocono Raceway on Sunday, August 23.
Justin was a loving father and devoted husband, as well as a highly competitive racing driver who was respected by his peers.
The family would like to thank the staff at the Lehigh Valley Health Network Cedar Crest Hospital, Pocono Raceway, Andretti Autosport, and the Verizon IndyCar Series as well as the entire racing community for the amazing outpouring of support from fans around the world.
The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Wilson Children’s Fund care of INDYCAR.
Wilson Children’s Fund
C/O INDYCAR
4551 West 16th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46222
If you would like to donate electronically, please visit:
Please send donations to the Wilson Children’s Fund via :
Wilson Children’s Fund
c/o Forum Credit Union
PO Box 50738
Indianapolis, IN 46250-0738
Phone: (317) 558-6000
Long Pond, Pa (22 August 2015) – Justin Wilson is back in oval action this weekend at Pocono Raceway, set to race the No. 25 Andretti Autosport Honda-Dallara in Sunday’s ABC Supply 500 (NBCSN broadcast at 2:00 PM ET).
Continue Reading…
Art St. Cyr, president, Honda Performance Development
“To say that we are heartbroken over the loss of Justin Wilson would create the false impression that our pain is localized. At a time earlier in the season, when we were in a continuing struggle to remain competitive in the Verizon IndyCar Series, Justin was the guy who WANTED to be with Honda, and he demonstrated that time and again. That allows you to take the measure of the man, and we will be forever grateful for his loyalty, and the gracious and gentlemanly way he represented our company, on and off the race track.
He was our friend, and our comrade. All of our thoughts and prayers are for his wife, Julia, daughters Jane and Jessica; his parents Keith and Lynne; his brother Stefan; and his many friends around the world.”
“Losing his life in an incident that was beyond his control is difficult to accept. His expert driving skills and keen awareness of all that was going on around him could not save him. We mourn his passing and will honor his memory as a championship-caliber driver who left us way too soon.
The family has requested that donations be made to:
Wilson Children’s Fund
C/O INDYCAR
4551 West 16th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46222
Red Bull Racing:
The news of the passing of Justin Wilson was met with great shock and sadness here today. It has affected many of the team at Milton Keynes, who worked with Justin during his days with Jaguar Racing.
Speaking on the news, Christian Horner said: “There are many sad faces at the factory today. Justin left his mark on many who worked with him during the Jaguar days; he is remembered fondly for the kind and humble person he was.
“Having known Justin since his karting days on the British circuits, it was always obvious to me that he was destined for great things in motorsport. His progress through the lower formulas was impressive and he absolutely flourished in F3000. Justin tested for the Arden Team, before securing a seat with Nordic Racing and went on to win the championship convincingly.
“I followed his successful career with interest over the years. Justin will be remembered not only as a talented driver but also as quite simply one of the nicest blokes in motorsport.
“The thoughts of everyone at Infiniti Red Bull Racing are with Justin’s parents Keith and Lynne, his brother Stefan, his wife Julia and his two young daughters. He will be sadly missed.”
IMSA Statement On The Passing Of Justin Wilson
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (August 24, 2015) – “IMSA joins the motorsports community in mourning the loss of Justin Wilson,” said IMSA CEO Ed Bennett. “As a competitor on the racetrack, Justin was one of the best, as he proved on multiple occasions, including with his victory in the 2012 Rolex 24 At Daytona. Off the racetrack, he was one of the most respected and well-liked human beings; a true champion and a true gentleman. Our hearts and prayers go out to Justin’s family, friends and teammates, including Michael Shank Racing and Andretti Autosport. He will be missed.”
A statement on behalf of Chevrolet in regards to the passing of Justin Wilson:
“The motorsports community has suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of Justin Wilson. Justin will be missed. He loved the sport and the fans truly loved him. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends and legions of fans. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Julia, and their two young daughters, and everyone at Andretti Autosport.”
IMS Statement Regarding Justin Wilson
INDIANAPOLIS, Monday, Aug. 24, 2015 – A statement from Indianapolis Motor Speedway President J. Douglas Boles about the passing of Indianapolis 500 and United States Grand Prix veteran Justin Wilson:
“We’re saddened to have lost such an exceptional driver, friend and role model to many in the INDYCAR community. Justin was one of the most versatile and talented drivers of the last 15 years, as evidenced by his wins in sports cars, Champ Car and INDYCAR. More important than his driving ability was his approachable personality, his calm spirit, and the respect he earned throughout the racing community for the tremendous person, friend, father and husband he was. Justin made innumerable friends and admirers throughout the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and INDYCAR communities. All of us at IMS extend our prayers and deepest sympathy to the Wilson family.”
Wilson first competed at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in the 2003 United States Grand Prix, finishing eighth and scoring his lone Formula One championship point of his career. Beginning in 2008, Wilson had competed in eight straight Indianapolis 500 races (2008 – 2015), finishing in the top 10 three times, with a best finish of fifth in 2013. Wilson also competed in the Verizon IndyCar Series Grand Prix of Indianapolis in 2014 and 2015. He is just one of three drivers who has competed at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in the United States Grand Prix, the Indianapolis 500, and the Grand Prix of Indianapolis.
Driver Justin Wilson Succumbs to Injuries
INDIANAPOLIS (Aug. 24, 2015) – INDYCAR announced that driver Justin Wilson, who enjoyed success in multiple motorsports series during a two-decade professional career, died today from a head injury sustained in the Verizon IndyCar Series race Aug. 23 at Pocono Raceway. He was 37.
“This is a monumentally sad day for INDYCAR and the motorsports community as a whole,” said Mark Miles, CEO of Hulman & Co., the parent of INDYCAR and Indianapolis Motor Speedway. “Justin’s elite ability to drive a race car was matched by his unwavering kindness, character and humility – which is what made him one of the most respected members of the paddock. As we know, the racing industry is one big family, and our efforts moving forward will be focused on rallying around Justin’s family to ensure they get the support they need during this unbelievably difficult time.”
Wilson was struck by debris from a single-car crash on Lap 180 of the 200-lap race on the 2.5-mile triangular oval. Wilson was attended to by the Holmatro Safety Team and airlifted to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest in Allentown, Pa.
A native of Sheffield, England, Wilson recorded seven career Indy car victories – the most recent in 2012 at Texas Motor Speedway – and eight pole starts in 174 races. He totaled 711 career laps led, including two in the Aug. 23 race. He competed in Formula One in 2003 with Minardi and Jaguar, and his initial F1 points were scored that year in the U.S. Grand Prix on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course. He co-drove a Michael Shank Racing sports car entry to the overall victory in the 50th anniversary Rolex 24 at Daytona in 2012.
Wilson, a road cycling and mountain biking enthusiast, also was an ambassador for dyslexia, a learning disorder characterized by difficulty reading that challenged him as a youth. He often would speak to groups at the racetrack and visit schools near INDYCAR race venues.
Wilson is survived by his wife, Julia, and two daughters. His younger brother Stefan is an accomplished race car driver who has competed in the Verizon IndyCar Series and Indy Lights. Funeral arrangements are pending. In lieu of flowers, a fund has been set up for Wilson children. Donations may be sent to: Wilson Children’s Fund, c/o INDYCAR, 4551 W. 16th St., Indianapolis, IN 46222.
Via Autosport:
STEFAN WILSON – Made one IndyCar start alongside his brother at Baltimore in 2013
“Can’t even begin to describe the loss I feel right now. He was my Brother, my best friend, my role model and mentor. He was a champion!
“He never stopped giving & caring for others. Even at this time. He had pre-chosen to donate his organs to help others in need. #myherojw
“I often told him, I just want to grow up to be half the man he is, as that will make me a pretty good man.
“He lived for this sport, he loved it. The only comfort I feel is that he lived a life he loved! RIP mate, I’ll chuffing miss you.”
MARK MILES – CEO of IndyCar’s parent company Hulman & Co.
“This is a monumentally sad day for IndyCar and the motorsports community as a whole. Justin’s elite ability to drive a race car was matched by his unwavering kindness, character and humility – which is what made him one of the most respected members of the paddock.
“As we know, the racing industry is one big family, and our efforts moving forward will be focused on rallying around Justin’s family to ensure they get the support they need during this unbelievably difficult time.”
Justin Wilson obituary: 1978-2015
JENSON BUTTON – F1 world champion and former karting rival
“The motorsport World comes 2 a standstill once again. @justin_wilson was a great person & racing driver.
“My thoughts are with his family RIP I raced with Justin as far back as 1989 in Karting and remember his smile was infectious, such a lovely guy. #RIPJustin.”
DARIO FRANCHITTI – Four-time IndyCar champion
“Rest in peace Justin, it was a real privilege to know you and call you a friend. Love to Julia, the girls @stef_wilson Keith and Lynne.”
LEWIS HAMILTON – Reigning F1 world champion
“I woke up this morning feeling positive in my heart until I read the news. I am so devastated to hear of another passing of a great man and driver.
“I’d met Justin Wilson a few times growing up and he was the ultimate gentleman. Whilst I only knew him a little, I will miss him. We will miss him.
“May God rest his soul and keep his hands over his family. My thoughts are with the Wilson family.”
GRAHAM RAHAL – Team-mate to Wilson at Newman-Haas in 2007 and ’08
“Godspeed my friend. Godspeed. #RIPJWil. Some things in life just don’t make sense. It’s impossible to comprehend why certain things happen. But may we never forget the man JW was.”
WILL POWER – IndyCar champion and Champ Car rival
“So distraught to hear the news of Justin’s passing. He was such a fantastic human being & will be dearly missed.”
ANDRETTI AUTOSPORT – Ran Wilson in a partial 2015 IndyCar campaign and the Moscow Formula E round
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Justin Wilson. He was a tremendous racer, a valuable member of the team and respected representative to our sport. While Justin was only part of the Andretti lineup for a short time, it only took a second for him to forever become part of the Andretti family.
“His life and racing career is a story of class and passion surpassed by none. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Wilson family and fans worldwide.
“Godspeed, JW.”
MICHAEL ANDRETTI – Andretti team boss
“My heart goes out to the Wilson family of the loss of Justin. He was a great friend and even greater person. He will be sorely missed. #RIPJW”
MARIO ANDRETTI – Formula 1 and IndyCar champion
“Devastated by the passing of Justin Wilson & wonder why I had so many more blessings. God please now bless Julia, the kids & @stef_wilson”
RYAN HUNTER-REAY – IndyCar champion and 2015 Andretti team-mate
“Can’t describe the sadness I feel for the loss of such a wonderful person. Justin was inspiring in so many ways & still is.”
DALE COYNE RACING – Wilson’s IndyCar team in 2009 and ’12-14
“All will remember Justin as a great driver. Let us never forget the joy fatherhood brought him. #RIPJustin #IndyCar”
DALE COYNE – Wilson claimed the maiden win for Coyne’s team at Watkins Glen in 2009
“It is with the great sadness that we learn of the passing of a great man, Justin Wilson. Justin was the kindest, gentlest racer that we have ever known. His wife Julia and their adorable girls, Jane and Jessica, are shining lights of Justin’s spirit.
“All of us that got to know Justin or just met him in passing must be saddened by this astonishing loss. Our thoughts and prayers continue with his entire family from all of us at Dale Coyne Racing and beyond.”
ROGER PENSKE – IndyCar team boss
“Justin Wilson was a tremendous competitor and a great ambassador for our sport. He was loved and respected throughout the racing community and we are all saddened by this tragic loss.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Justin’s wife Julia, their two young daughters and all of the Wilson family.”
FERNANDO ALONSO – Two-time Formula 1 world champion and raced against Wilson in F3000
“#RIPJustinWilson my thoughts are with his family and friends. So sad, difficult to accept.”
AJ ALLMENDINGER – RuSPORT Champ Car team-mate in 2005 and 2006
“JW I wish I could have been there to say goodbye. Told u how much u meant to me. Told u how much u inspired me to be better.Gone way to soon.”
ALEX TAGLIANI – RuSPORT Champ Car team-mate
“I will miss the good laughs of my 2007 teammate @justin_wilson & the great conversations in the paddock I am very sad & hurt for his family.”
SCOTT DIXON – Three-time IndyCar champion
“Father, Husband, Friend, just an amazing human being. We will miss you to no end. Love to the Wilson Family. #RIPJustin”
TONY KANAAN – IndyCar champion
“Oh man, my heart is aching another friend gone. Godspeed to one of racing’s truest gentlemen.”
HELIO CASTRONEVES – IndyCar rival
“Sending my prayers to Justin’s family, Julia,Jessica,Jane, may God give the strength to find peace. #RIP my friend.”
TAKUMA SATO – IndyCar rival
“Can’t find the words… impossible. Extremely sad day. We will miss you forever. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. RIP Justin Wilson.”
JUAN PABLO MONTOYA – Raced with Wilson in F1 and IndyCar
“Tough day in motorsport today as we loose another great person and driver. RIP Justin. You will be miss. Thoughts and prayers for his family.”
ROMAIN GROSJEAN – Lotus F1 driver
“So sad to hear that Justin Wilson passed away. What dreadful news and what a dramatic year for racing. Losing too many champions.”
DANIEL RICCIARDO – Red Bull F1 driver
“This sport can be so damn harsh. It breaks my heart. I wish Justin’s family all my love and support.”
VALTTERI BOTTAS – Williams F1 driver
“Very sad news this morning, RIP Justin Wilson. My thoughts are with the family.”
SERGIO PEREZ – Force India F1 driver
“Very sad news, we lost a colleague! R.i.P Justin Wilson. All my thoughts with your Family.”
MARCUS ERICSSON – Sauber F1 driver
“Extremely sad to hear that Justin Wilson has passed away. All my thoughts are with his family #RIPJustin.”
NARAIN KARTHIKEYAN – Former F1 driver and Formula Vauxhall rival
“Terrible news to wake up to, RIP Justin Wilson – one of the nicest race drivers I’ve known. A thorough gentleman, Just unreal..
“Knew Justin from racing, back in Formula Vauxhall in ’95. Very fast in the car, gentle on the outside. Heartfelt condolences to his family.”
SIMON PAGENAUD – IndyCar rival and one-time Dreyer & Reinbold Racing team-mate
“We’ll miss u very much my friend Justin Wilson. Thanks for everything you did for IndyCar. Thoughts and prayers…”
SIMONA DE SILVESTRO – 2015 Andretti Autosport team-mate
“It was an honour to share the car with you this year and being your teammate. I will miss you Justin.”
CARLOS MUNOZ – 2015 Andretti Autosport team-mate
“No words… Really sad news… Hard to let go of a team mate and a great person… We will never forget you #RIP”
JAMES JAKES – Wilson’s 2012 Dale Coyne Racing team-mate
“Two team-mates gone in the space of 6 weeks. Motorsport can be so cruel sometimes!”
PIPPA MANN – Dale Coyne Racing IndyCar team-mate
“I have no words. I will miss you so much my friend. Thoughts with Julia, the girls, and Stefan this eve. #RIPJustinWilson”
MARK WEBBER – Formula 3000 rival and 2003 Jaguar F1 team-mate
“Last night a very good man left us. Mate. So sorry. RIP Justin. My thoughts are with your loved ones.”
NICK HEIDFELD – raced with Wilson in Formula 3000, F1 and Formula E
“Terrible news of Justin Wilson not being with us any more. My thoughts are with his family.”
BRUNO JUNQUEIRA – Formula 3000 and Champ Car rival
“#RIPJustin a true gentleman driver. You will be always missed.”
STOFFEL VANDOORNE – GP2 championship leader and McLaren reserve driver
“#RIPJustinWilson Thoughts are with his family and friends…”
JOLYON PALMER – Lotus reserve driver
“What a sad day. Justin was someone I followed as I was growing up and admired hugely. Can’t believe it, thoughts with his family now.”
ANTONIO FELIX DA COSTA – DTM and Formula E driver
“Can’t believe it! A bit shy off the track, but in it, what a racer he was, had the pleasure to have a few fights with him and get to know him. Strong thoughts with his family! Rest in Peace Justin.”
PAUL DI RESTA – DTM and former F1 driver
“Very sad news to hear about @justin_wilson thoughts are with his family at this time. Always with us big guy!”
WILL STEVENS – Manor F1 driver
“Another terrible loss for the motorsport world! Thoughts are with his family and friends!”
ESTEBAN GUTIERREZ – Ferrari F1 reserve
“RIP Justin Wilson. All my thoughts and prayers for his family. Let’s be united and work for better safety.”
TORO ROSSO – Wilson made his F1 debut with the team during its Minardi days
“We knew him well, since 2003… @justin_wilson, you will be missed! All our thoughts are with his family.”
RED BULL RACING – Wilson raced with the team when it was Jaguar
“A tragic loss. All at the Team send their deepest condolences to Justin’s family and friends at this time.”
CHRISTIAN HORNER – Red Bull F1 boss and former F3000 team owner
“Having known Justin since his karting days on the British circuits, it was always obvious to me that he was destined for great things in motorsport.
“His progress through the lower formulas was impressive and he absolutely flourished in F3000. Justin tested for the Arden Team, before securing a seat with Nordic Racing and went on to win the championship convincingly.
“I followed his successful career with interest over the years. Justin will be remembered not only as a talented driver but also as quite simply one of the nicest blokes in motorsport.
“The thoughts of everyone at Infiniti Red Bull Racing are with Justin’s parents Keith and Lynne, his brother Stefan, his wife Julia and his two young daughters. He will be sadly missed.”
FRANZ TOST – Toro Rosso F1 team principal
“The Englishman’s Formula 1 career started in 2003, here in Faenza with the Minardi Team. Therefore many of our Scuderia Toro Rosso team members worked with Justin back then, and remember him as a friendly, gentle person and talented true racer.
“It’s a very sad day. On behalf of the entire team, I offer our sincerest condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.”
KEVIN MAGNUSSEN – McLaren reserve driver
“RIP Justin Wilson. A guy who had such great love for the sport. All my thoughts are with his family and friends in this tragic time.”
ALEX LYNN – Williams development driver
“Such horrible news to hear about Justin Wilson this morning, our sport is so difficult in times like this.”
MICHAEL SHANK – Wilson won the 2012 Daytona 24 Hours with Michael Shank Racing, alongside AJ Allmendinger, Oswaldo Negri and Mark Patterson
“I’m so pissed off I lost my friend tonight . I’m so pissed off that his kids/wife don’t get him to grow up with. I’m just so sad…”
JONATHAN PALMER – Motor Sport Vision chief executive
“The world has lost not just an outstanding race driver, but even more importantly an outstanding human being who was a wonderful example to everyone. By winning our first Formula Palmer Audi championship in 1998, Justin earned my total support and justified it by going on to be F3000 champion and then achieving his dream of racing in F1, first with Minardi and then Jaguar.
“Moving across to the US suited his character superbly and he rapidly established himself as one of the biggest talents in Champ Car racing. And now his IndyCar career was looking exciting again with Andretti Autosport, fresh from a second place at Mid-Ohio.
“Justin was like a son to me and working closely with his father Keith we forged a great team, as together we created opportunities that Justin always made the best of. Justin had the remarkable ability to be fiercely competitive in a race car yet be admired and respected by all of his competitors. He was unwaveringly loyal to his supporters and also never stopped making time for the valued shareholders of Justin Wilson plc, that helped him make it to F1, speaking at every AGM for 10 years.
“I am absolutely devastated for Justin’s lovely family, who were all so important to him. His loss will be colossal to his father Keith, mother Lynne, brother Stefan, wife Julia and his precious daughters Jane and Jessica, to whom I extend my deepest sympathies.
“For Justin to lose his life as an innocent victim is an absolute tragedy and it is vital that further work is done to progress motor racing safety. It has been an enormous privilege for me to have been so close to both such an exciting race driver and inspirational young man who will forever remain an example to all the world’s racing drivers. The world and particularly motorsport will be a poorer place without Justin, but he leaves a legacy of being the epitome of a true sportsman.”
FORMULA E – Wilson made one start in the series, at Moscow in June
“Everyone at Formula E is shocked and saddened by Justin Wilson’s death. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones #RIPBadass.”
JEAN-ERIC VERGNE – Wilson’s Andretti Formula E team-mate at Moscow
“This is so sad, have no words… RIP Justin”
SAM BIRD – Formula E racer
“Woken up to terrible news. R.I.P Justin. Such a kind and friendly man. My thoughts are with you and your loved ones :(”
MERCEDES AMG F1
“Our thoughts today are with the family and friends of @justin_wilson. A great driver and an even greater man.”
LOTUS F1
“Such sad news. Our deepest condolences go to Justin’s family and all who knew & admired him. RIP Justin…”
FORCE INDIA
“We are devastated by the terrible news of Justin Wilson’s passing. Our thoughts are with Justin’s family and friends in this moment. RIP.”
McLAREN
“All at McLaren are deeply saddened to hear the news about Justin Wilson. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. #RIPJustinWilson.”
MANOR
“Dreadful news from the U.S. this morning. Our deepest condolences to Justin’s family & everyone at Andretti Autosport.”
HONDA MOTORSPORT
“We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Justin Wilson. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. #RIPJustinWilson.”
DIDIER COTON – Manager of Valtteri Bottas
“For all of us to gather our thoughts and be with Justin’s family & the Indycar community. Very sad day. #RIP Justin.”
KARUN CHANDHOK – Sportscar racer, former F1 driver
“Very sad news this morning about @justin_wilson…Showed real tenacity in junior formula to get to F1. Was such a nice guy. #RIPJustinWilson
“Justin was a great example to young drivers… Made no excuses about his height despite the obvious difficulties & just got on with the job.”
ALEXANDER WURZ – GPDA chairman, former F1 driver
“We lost another great racer, hard to accept. RIP Justin Wilson”
MAX CHILTON – Indy Lights racer and former F1 driver
“A big smile has left us. #RIPJustin.”
PEDRO DE LA ROSA – Former F1 driver
“Another extraordinary racer has left us. RIP Justin Wilson. Our thoughts are with your family.”
SAGE KARAM – IndyCar driver
“I can’t find the proper words to describe the pain and sympathy I feel for Justin and his family. #RIPJustin”
JR HILDEBRAND – IndyCar driver
“You smiled in the face of anything that came your way, your friendship was worth more than you could know. We miss you already, JWill.”
CHARLIE KIMBALL – IndyCar driver
“The sport we love can be so cruel. Today is one of those days. IndyCar lost a great driver and great friend. The world lost a great person.”
J. DOUGLAS BOLES – Indianapolis Motor Speedway President
“We’re saddened to have lost such an exceptional driver, friend and role model to many in the INDYCAR community. Justin was one of the most versatile and talented drivers of the last 15 years, as evidenced by his wins in sports cars, Champ Car and INDYCAR.
“More important than his driving ability was his approachable personality, his calm spirit, and the respect he earned throughout the racing community for the tremendous person, friend, father and husband he was. Justin made innumerable friends and admirers throughout the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and INDYCAR communities.
“All of us at IMS extend our prayers and deepest sympathy to the Wilson family.”
Pocono, Pa (19 August 2015) – After a two week break in the action, it is time for a two-race sprint to the checked flag on the 2015 Verizon IndyCar Series season for Justin Wilson and his Andretti Autosport squad.
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INDIANAPOLIS (July 7, 2015) – Racing veteran Justin Wilson will return to the Verizon IndyCar Series with Andretti Autosport beginning with this weekend’s Milwaukee IndyFest, and will continue to pilot the No. 25 Honda for the remainder of the 2015 season. With 170 Verizon IndyCar Series starts over 13 seasons, the 36-year-old has totaled seven wins, 26-podium finishes, 93 top 10s and over 700 laps led. Continue Reading…
Courtesy Andretti Autosport
6 June 2015-Andretti Autosport IndyCar driver Justin Wilson joined the Formula E team in Moscow and made a solid debut performance. The Briton closed the top 10 to bring home another valuable point for the team at the end of the eighth round of the all-electric racing series.
Set in the heart of Russia’s capital city, the 2.29km anti-clockwise street circuit ran alongside the Moskva River and took in the stunning sights of Staraya Square, Red Square, the Moscow Gostiny Dvor, Saint Basil’s Cathedral and the Kremlin. Featuring 13 corners comprising a series of quick bends, 90-degree turns and sharp hairpins, it provided all the thrills and spills it had promised in front of a capacity crowd.
CASTLE DONINGTON, UK (27 May 2015) – Andretti Formula E announced today a new addition to the American team’s FIA Formula E Championship stable with UK-native Justin Wilson piloting the No. 28 all-electric machine for the upcoming Moscow ePrix.
Most recently seen behind the wheel of Andretti’s Rolling Stones-themed Indianapolis 500 entry, Wilson hopes to use his diverse racing background as he expands his motorsport portfolio.
Indianapolis, Ind. (24 May 2015) –Justin Wilson was able to lead the Indianapolis 500 on Sunday, but it wasn’t on the lap that he was hoping to.
Some tough luck timing with an early yellow flag put the effort on the back foot with the No. 25 Rolling Stones Honda-powered Dallara early, but the Andretti Autosport squad utilized a strategy that saw him recover the lap and lead the race late ahead of coming home 21st. Continue Reading…
via Indycar PR:
Three-time Verizon IndyCar Series champion Scott Dixon of Target Chip Ganassi Racing and Justin Wilson of Andretti Autosport met an enthusiastic and appreciative crowd of 3,000 elementary school students May 19 at Texas Motor Speedway.
Indianapolis, Ind. (17 May 2015) –On a day that witnessed a wide range of uncertainties and rapid changes, one thing was rock solid as Justin Wilson qualified the No. 25 Andretti Autosport Honda-powered Dallara 6th for the 99th running of the Indianapolis 500 (ABC, May 24 11:00 AM ET) with a four-lap average of 225.279 mph.
Indianapolis, Ind. (8 May 2015) – Racing with a new team and getting his first laps behind the wheel of the new Honda aero kit-equipped Verizon IndyCar this weekend, Justin Wilson had a sizable list of things to get used to as he joined Andretti Autosport for the Angie’s List Grand Prix of Indianapolis. But the likable and popular pilot was a quick study in the opening two days of action at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway as he made the most of his laps in preparation for Saturday’s race (ABC live broadcast, 3:30 PM ET) on the 2.439-mile infield road circuit.
Indianapolis, Ind. (1 May 2015) – Justin Wilson has a busy schedule ahead of him, and he couldn’t be more excited.
Wilson has been tabbed to join Andretti Autosport for the Angie’s List Grand Prix on May 9th and for the 99th running of the Indianapolis 500 on May 24th to pilot the No. 25 Andretti Autosport Dallara-Honda.
That program will take its first on-track laps this Sunday as the Verizon IndyCar Series stages a one-day test at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The test will feature the first public running of the Honda aero kit as Wilson looks to learn the new kit configuration as well as get familiar with his new team.
News Update Courtesy Andretti Autosport
Justin Wilson to Run No. 25 Honda for two Indianapolis IndyCar Races
ST. PETERSBURG, FLA. (March 27, 2015) – Andretti Autosport confirmed today that Justin Wilson will join its Verizon IndyCar Series program for part of the 2015 season. The 36-year-old veteran driver will pilot the No. 25 Honda for the Grand Prix of Indianapolis as well as the 99th Running of the Indianapolis 500. Wilson has competed in the Verizon IndyCar Series for 11 seasons, totaling seven wins, 26 podium finishes, eight pole positions and 700 laps led.
Denver, Colo. (4 March 2015) – Justin Wilson will be back in race action next weekend as he is set to join Michael Shank Racing with Curb/Agajanian for the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring Fueled by Fresh From Florida. He will team with co-drivers John Pew and Ozz Negri in the No. 60 Tire Kingdom Ligier JS P2 powered by Honda.
It will be the second consecutive 12 Hours of Sebring event that Wilson has run for Michael Shank Racing and it also marks his 14th race start with the Ohio-based team.
Wilson’s experience with Michael Shank Racing stretches back to 2006, but it will be his first opportunity to drive the team’s new Honda-powered Ligier JS P2 machine which made an impressive debut in the Rolex 24 At Daytona as the team made quick work of adapting the the all-new platform.
3 December 2014 – Justin Wilson fans now have a brand new way to show their support as the British racer announced his partnership with the clothing company, Athlete Originals. Continue Reading…
This past weekend, Verizon IndyCar Series driver Justin Wilson’s wife, Julia, ran a pair of her own races over the weekend as she and a group of friends competed in the Rock and Roll 5k on Saturday, and then stepped it up on Sunday with the 13.1-mile Las Vegas 1/2 Marathon, which benefited the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America. Continue Reading…
10 November, 2014—Justin Wilson got the chance to not only help a new debut event, but also a great taste of college football in the bargain this weekend.
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Denver, CO (24 September 2014) – The 2014 Verizon IndyCar series may be in the books, but that does not mean that driver Justin Wilson is now “off-duty.” In addition to keeping up his intensive physical training schedule and catching up on some family time, Wilson has a busy schedule of appearances and outings in the coming weeks as he continues to prepare for 2015. Continue Reading…
Fontana, Calif. (31 August 2014) – The Verizon IndyCar Series staged its season-finale race at Auto Club Speedway Saturday night under the lights as the 2014 championship came to a close in Fontana, California.
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Fontana, Calif. (27 August 2014) – After overcoming adversity and doubling down on his physical training, Justin Wilson will return to Auto Club Speedway for the MAVTV500 on Saturday night (broadcast: NBCSN, 9:00 PM ET) just over 300 days since suffering a pelvis-breaking injury at the track in the season-finale race at the track last year. Continue Reading…
Sonoma, Calif. (24 August 2014) –Justin Wilson moved up from 16th on the GoPro Grand Prix grid to finish ninth on Sunday in the penultimate race of the 2014 Verizon IndyCar Series season. Continue Reading…
Sonoma, Ca. (23 August 2014) – Returning to the site of his best Verizon IndyCar Series finish of 2013 with his run to second place for Dale Coyne Racing, Justin Wilson will look to make forward progress in Sunday’s GoPro Grand Prix (NBCSN 4:00 PM ET) as he is set to start the 85 lap race from 16th on the grid.
Milwaukee, Wis. (17 August 2014) – After a long day in the office for Justin Wilson, the No. 19 Boy Scouts of America Dale Coyne Racing Honda/Dallara came home 17th in the ABC Supply Co. Wisconsin 250 on Sunday in Verizon IndyCar Series competition.
Milwaukee, Wis. (13 August 2014) – Following a brief break in Verizon IndyCar Series race action, Dale Coyne Racing driver Justin Wilson is eager for the annual trip to the Milwaukee Mile this weekend as the series prepares for oval action following several rounds of road and street course events. Continue Reading…
Milwaukee, Wisc. (16 August 2014) – After posting the quickest time early in qualifying for the ABC Supply Co. Wisconsin 250 on Saturday, Justin Wilson wheeled the No. 19 Boy Scouts of America Dale Coyne Racing Honda/Dallara into the pits to a healthy round of applause as the fans on hand recognized the progress Wilson and his crew had made on the day. Continue Reading…
Lexington, Ohio (3 August 2014) – Justin Wilson did not have the weekend he had been hoping for at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course after several elements of the Honda Indy 200 did not play into his favor on Sunday. In a race that saw two caution periods and Wilson saving fuel throughout his green flag stints, the Briton was credited with 15th place. The result was disappointing for the Dale Coyne Racing driver who had been quick throughout the weekend posting lap times within the top-five during practice.
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Lexington, Ohio (2 August 2014) – Justin Wilson will start the Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course from the fourth row after taking to a slippery racetrack on Saturday during Verizon IndyCar Series qualifying. A heavy rain enveloped the circuit earlier in the day which left the 2.258-mile, 13-turn natural-terrain road course wet for the session.
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Lexington, Ohio (30 July 2014) – Following three consecutive Verizon IndyCar Series race weekends – including a doubleheader event in Toronto two weeks ago – Justin Wilson is back from a brief break in race action for the Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course this weekend. The race marks Round 15 of the 2014 IndyCar championship and will go green on Sunday at 3:50 PM ET (LIVE broadcast NBC Sports at 3:00 PM ET).
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TORONTO (20 July 2014) – Justin Wilson had a big day of racing on Sunday as he contested two Verizon IndyCar Series races in one day through the streets of Toronto. He came away with two hard-fought top-10 results after a day that saw a mix of dry and wet weather race conditions.
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Toronto, Ontario (17 July 2014) – Following two challenging oval outings in the previous two Verizon IndyCar Series events, Justin Wilson is eager to put his No. 19 Boy Scouts of America Honda/Dallara back to work on a street circuit through the streets of Toronto for the IndyCar double header this weekend.
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