Bobby Unser: The passing of an American motorsport giant

Three-time IndyCar winner Bobby Unser passed away from natural causes on Sunday evening at the age of 87.

Unser – or Uncle Bobby as he was affectionately known – was a member of the legendary Unser racing dynasty whose distinguished family members include Bobby's brother, Al Unser, who won at Indy four times and his nephew Al Jr. who won twice at the mighty Speedway.

Bobby Unser also attempted a foray into the world of Formula 1 in 1968. Along with fellow legend Mario Andretti, Unser entered the Italian Grand Prix at Monza that year with BRM, while Andretti was scheduled to race with Lotus.

Both drivers practiced at Monza before flying back to the US to take part in the Hoosier 100, a sprint car dirt track race scheduled at the Indianapolis State Fairgrounds on the Saturday.

The pair then crossed the Atlantic to return to Monza in time for the Italian Grand Prix on Sunday but were barred from taking part by the Italian marshals who based their decision on an obscure ruling that prevented a driver from taking part in another race within 24 hours of the start of the Grand Prix.

But Unser got a second chance at the US Grand Prix at Watkins Glen a few weeks later. Unser qualified 19th and retired after 35 laps while running 10th.

Unser, a fast-talking character who was always up for a wisecrack, was never short on opinions, but Uncle Bobby was known and unanimously appreciated for his humor, kindness, and decency among his fellow racers.

Bobby Unser 1934 - 2021