Dixon puts Foyt's IndyCar record in sight with sixth title

©IndyCar

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©IndyCar

Kiwi Scott Dixon sealed his sixth IndyCar title on Sunday in St. Petersburg, the Chip Ganassi Racing driver now just one championship short of A.J. Foyt's record seven crown.

Penske's Josef Newgarden - Dixon's main title rival heading into the Florida showdown - came out on top in the chaotic, incident-packed round at St. Pete, but Dixon's run to third was enough for the 40-year-old to ensure his coronation.

"It’s never just one thing or one person," said Dixon who won races this year.

"For me, it’s about the team effort. We had a lot of changes in the offseason. Credit to Josef (Newgarden) and Team Penske.

"They drove the last part of the season flawlessly and a lot points, so that was pretty awesome to race them again. And we know next year is going to be the same, but huge thanks again to everyone on the team."

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.