The British at Indianapolis follows the format of the author’s award winning The British at Le Mans. It recounts the history of the Indianapolis 500 race through the eyes and actions of those British born or British citizens who have driven in it, or been involved in any other way – be it as a designer, mechanic, or official. It also examines the British built cars that have won the Indy 500 and the significance of the rear-engined revolution brought to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway by Cooper in 1961, and elevated to success by Lotus and Lola. It includes such names as Jim Clark, Graham Hill, Nigel Mansell and Dario Franchitti. In addition to the 500 it includes other races at the IMS, notably Lewis Hamilton’s victory in the Formula One Grand Prix there. It is a story that goes back to the first 500 in 1911, when London-born Hughie Hughes became the first British-born driver to race in the 500, to the present day, with more British than ever competing in the race and British drivers winning twice in the last four years.
Circa l’autore
Freelance journalist Ian Wagstaff won the Mercedes-Benz Montagu of Beaulieu Trophy for his book, The British at Le Mans. He began his writing career with Autosport and Motoring News before becoming press and promotions manager at Silverstone in the late 1970s, during which time the Indy Cars made their only appearance in the UK. His recent articles have feature in such titles as Racecar Engineering, Motor Sport, Race Engine Technology, Performance Racing Industry, The Paddock and The Red Bulletin. His work for these takes him to races throughout Europe and the USA, including the Indianapolis 500.