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Photo Credit: Nick Laham / Getty Images

The Indianapolis 500 is full of history, family lineage and incredible drivers – Dario Franchitti being one of them. But what sets him apart from the others?

Here are 3 facts about the Indy 500 champ:

 

1. Scotland born and raised

Although Dario is of Italian descent, the former IndyCar driver was born and raised in Scotland where he won the Scottish Junior Cart Championship at 11-years-old. Think that’s impressive? In 1985 and 1986 he won the Scottish Senior Title, and two years later won the Scottish Senior Title. Let’s just say his love and talent for driving really took off as he was later named the McLaren/Autosport Young Driver of the Year award.

dario as a little kid

 

2. Three-time Indy 500 Winner

Dario is considered one of the most successful IndyCar drivers in the history of racing, and he has the stats to show it: three Indianapolis 500 wins, four IndyCar championships and over 30 victories in his 17-year career.

dario drinking milk after winning indy 500

 

3. Forced retirement

The three-time Indy 500 winner’s car launched after hitting the back of Takuma Sato back in 2013. Franchitti suffered a concussion, a broken ankle and a spinal fracture, which ultimately forced him into retirement. But to Franchitti, “I’m so lucky to be in this position. The other stuff is minor inconveniences.”

dario pouring milk on his head after winning the indy 500

 

Hear more from Dario Franchitti about his incredible racing career at 93.1 WIBC and 1070 The Fan’s Tales from the Track on Wednesday, May 22nd at 6pm.