Indianapolis Motor Speedway was witness to an emotional pre-season news conference where Helio Castroneves, once a full-time IndyCar driver but now a team co-owner with Meyer Shank Racing, shared his heartfelt thoughts on the loss of his trusted advisor, Gil de Ferran. Holding back tears, Castroneves acknowledged the impact de Ferran had on his career and the immense void left behind with his departure. Their journey together began during their time at Team Penske, where they formed an unbreakable bond and achieved remarkable success.
Reflecting on their time together, Castroneves vividly remembered their first meeting that stretched over an hour and 45 minutes. While Gil dominated the conversation for most of it, Castroneves emphasized that despite their contrasting personalities, they forged an inseparable duo. Gil’s intense dedication, vast knowledge, and unique sense of humor endeared him to Castroneves and Team Penske President Tim Cindric. Together, they were known as the “Three Musketeers,” an unstoppable force within the racing world.
A Golden Era
Teaming up at Team Penske in 2000, Castroneves and de Ferran showcased their exceptional talent by notching up an impressive 20 race wins and securing 25 pole positions in a span of just four years. During this period, de Ferran claimed consecutive CART championships in 2000 and 2001, adding to his already remarkable racing legacy. Castroneves, on the other hand, etched his name in history books by becoming the first driver to triumph at the Indianapolis 500 in his first two starts in 2001 and 2002. In 2003, de Ferran clinched victory at the iconic race, securing Team Penske’s third consecutive win at the prestigious event.
For Castroneves, Gil de Ferran was not just a teammate but a close friend, making his loss even more profound. The realization that de Ferran will no longer be by his side weighed heavily on Castroneves’ heart. However, he found solace in the belief that his departed friend is redesigning the gates of heaven, adding his charismatic touch to make them more modern and electric, ensuring a joyous time up above.
While Castroneves stepped away from full-time competition in IndyCar at the end of the previous year, his journey continues with MSR as he aspires to become the first-ever five-time winner of the Indianapolis 500. Excited about his new role as a team co-owner, Castroneves acknowledged the learning curve that awaits him with MSR. The team is already hard at work, with many former members of the IMSA sportscars division joining forces with Castroneves. Although recent races haven’t seen the desired outcomes in terms of speed, the team remains optimistic and focused on executing their strategies seamlessly.
The legacy of Gil de Ferran will forever be etched in the records of motorsport history. His profound impact on the career of Helio Castroneves serves as a testament to his remarkable character, his endless dedication, and his invaluable knowledge of the sport. As the racing world bids farewell to this legend, Castroneves and his team at MSR are determined to carry forward de Ferran’s spirit and create new milestones that honor his legacy.
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