Gordon Johncock, a two-time winner of the Indianapolis 500, has died at 90

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Gordon Johncock, a two-time winner of the prestigious Indianapolis 500 and a 25-time champion in IndyCar racing, has passed away at the age of 90. The renowned driver, who competed in one of IndyCar’s golden eras, succumbed to natural causes on Monday at his residence in South Branch, Michigan, according to a family spokesman.

Johncock's illustrious career spanned a remarkable 24-year span, during which he secured his first Indy 500 victory in 1973 amidst a tumultuous racing month marred by rain and tragic crashes. His second win in 1982 remains a testament to his skill, as he narrowly outpaced A.J. Foyt by a mere 0.16 seconds—a feat still regarded as one of the closest in the race's history.

Beyond his exceptional racing prowess, Johncock was celebrated for his down-to-earth personality and distinctive fashion sense, often seen donning flannel shirts and jeans, a testament to his small-town roots. His racing career was filled with accolades, including being inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame in 1997 and the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 1999.

Johncock's journey into racing began at a young age, starting with the family's John Deere tractor at just five years old. He made his debut in the IndyCar Series in 1964, securing fifth place in the 500 as a rookie in 1965. Throughout his career, he made 262 career IndyCar starts, setting records for his participation and leading 339 laps. His legacy extends beyond racing; he also ventured into farming and the forestry business, embodying his laid-back approach to life, famously referred to as "Johncock casual."