Dinner with Racers

The Godfather of modern motorsport broadcasting, Terry Lingner was one of the first hires at ESPN during inception, transforming world of live racing to what we know today. Eventually forming his own production company, Lingner Group Productions, the group covered IndyCar, NASCAR, IMSA, USAC and beyond. Near-and-dear to our hearts is one of Terry’s staple shows, “Thursday Night Thunder,” home of the now-infamous Fast Masters Series. Breakfast was served at Charlie Brown’s Pancake & Steakhouse in Speedway, IN, with the song “Rewind” by Aves taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Heralded as “IndyCar’s little brother,” Conor Daly is a veteran of IndyCar driver with a reputation as one of the sport’s ceaseless hustlers. Having driven for all but two teams in the paddock, Conor has jumped from the role of super-sub to full-time and back back, taking multiple podiums and leading the Indianapolis 500 along the way. One of Indiana’s favorite sons, his desire to compete at the 500 is second-to-none, not to mention blossoming out to the sportscar, NASCAR and rallycross ranks. Dinner was served at Vicino in Indianapolis, IN, with the song “Vibe One Time” by Captain Joz taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Barry Wanser is another staple of behind-the-scenes IndyCar lore. One of the principal members behind Chip Ganassi Racing’s success, Barry started as mechanic with Joe Amato’s NHRA program going back to the early 1990’s, eventually becoming a gearbox mechanic for Ganassi in ChampCar, and eventually elevating himself to today’s role where he not only serves as the Team Manager of Competition, but specifically as the strategist for Alex Palou’s incredible run of three championships. Dinner was served at Tegry Bistro in Indianapolis, IN, with the song “Watch Out” by Chaun Davis taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Chad Knaus is one of the biggest names in NASCAR. The Crew Chief behind all seven of Jimmie Johnson’s championships, including five in a row and 81 race wins, Chad is widely recognized as one of the best to ever do it. Currently promoted to the current role of VP of Competition and Hendrick Motorsports, Chad’s journey to the top of NASCAR is unlike any other, and a must-listen for anyone looking to be in the sport. Dinner was served at Eddie V’s in Charlotte, NC, with the song “Out to Get Me” by Indiana Bradley taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Chad Knaus is one of the biggest names in NASCAR. The Crew Chief behind all seven of Jimmie Johnson’s championships, including five in a row and 81 race wins, Chad is widely recognized as one of the best to ever do it. Currently promoted to the current role of VP of Competition and Hendrick Motorsports, Chad’s journey to the top of NASCAR is unlike any other, and a must-listen for anyone looking to be in the sport. Dinner was served at Eddie V’s in Charlotte, NC, with the song “Trust Myself” by Echo Laroux taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Quickly being recognized as one of NASCAR’s top young drivers, Chase Briscoe is coming off of his fourth season in the NASCAR Cup Series, now a proven multi-race winner and 11-time winner in Xfinity. His story, however, comes from his humble roots, having fought for every seat he’s had with no funding, and somehow finding himself at the top ranks of NASCAR. The last driver to win for the fabled Stewart-Haas Racing, Chase will enter a new chapter in 2025, taking over the storied No. 19 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing. Lunch was served at the Rolling Hills Golf Club in Monroe, NC, with the song “Take the Fun Away” by Ofer Karen taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

A NASCAR Hall-of-Fame driver, Rusty Wallace’s place in the sport is solidified. The 1989 Cup Champion and founding driver of Roger Penske’s NASCAR organization, Rusty would cut his teeth in the midwestern ASA racing scene alongside other legends like Alan Kulwicki and Mark Martin. Coming up with limited means, he would go on to become a 55-time race winner in Cup to earn his place in the Hall of Fame. Dinner was served at Jeffrey’s Restaurant in Mooresville, NC, with the song “One of These Days” by Adam Simons taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Graham Rahal is a staple of the IndyCar series, now entering his 18th season as a driver. Part of the Rahal family, the son of Bobby Rahal has made a name in the sport in his own right, not only taking multiple victories in the series, but working just as hard away from the track to grow a multitude of car businesses under the GRP (Graham Rahal Performance) banner. Away from business and driving, Graham has joined yet another family seen as racing royalty, marrying Courtney Force, a champion drag racer and the daughter of the legendary John Force. Dinner was served at Monterey Cuisine in Carmel, IN, with the song “Find a Pathway Home” by J Fitz taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Oliver Gavin is synonymous with the dynasty that is Corvette Racing. A graduate of European junior formula racing, Oliver’s largest success came in American sportscar racing, eventually becoming part of GM and their staple Corvette program, where he’d enjoy a multi-decade career that won just about everything: Daytona, LeMans, a million championships, you name it. Lunch was served at Bonefish Grill in Daytona Beach, Florida, with the song “Let’s Go” by Marc Robillard taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Renger van der Zande is one of the most likable guys in the IMSA paddock. A staple of prototype racing, Renger’s journeyman path to the top has seen no shortage of challenges, from insurmountable debt to using his side businesses as a means to get himself back in the sport. Somehow he’s made it all work, winning an IMSA championship, and major races such as Sebring, Long Beach and beyond to be one of the most respected sportscar drivers of the current era. Dinner was served at Martini’s Organic in Daytona Beach, Florida, with the song “Take U There” by Rex Banner taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Laurens Vanthoor is one of the current greats in sportscar racing. Having just won the World Endurance Championship, Laurens is a top-race for Porsche, currently racing with Penske in the LMDh prototype category. Growing up in Belgium, Laurens’ career has spanned from running with several current star in European junior ranks, to becoming a factory driver for both Audi and Porsche, winning races such as Spa, Daytona, and the most unique win at Macau in history. Lunch was served at The Porch Kombucha in Daytona Beach, Florida, with the song “Temptation” by Ride Free taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Mike Rockenfeller has quietly risen to become one of the most celebrated racers in all of sportscar. Growing up in rural Germany with limited means, Mike was the quintessential successful junior racer with limited means, eventually finding his way onto the Porsche factory driver roster, then Audi, and now Ford. Mike has literally won everything there is to win in sportscar, from LeMans, to Daytona, to even a DTM championship. Dinner was served at Dahlia Mexican in Daytona Beach, Florida, with the song “Crash and Burn” by Kissing Candice taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Mike Rockenfeller has quietly risen to become one of the most celebrated racers in all of sportscar. Growing up in rural Germany with limited means, Mike was the quintessential successful junior racer with limited means, eventually finding his way onto the Porsche factory driver roster, then Audi, and now Ford. Mike has literally won everything there is to win in sportscar, from LeMans, to Daytona, to even a DTM championship. Dinner was served at Dahlia Mexican in Daytona Beach, Florida, with the song “Honest Man” by Moon taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Max Angelelli is IMSA’s favorite lunatic. Seriously, he’s insane. That’s all you need to know. Growing up in Italy and coming up through European junior racing, Max found success in America throughout the 1990’s and 2000’s in American sportscar racing, capitalizing on his opportunities to become a multi-time winner at Daytona as well as IMSA/Grand-Am champion. Outside of the car, he was also a core element to the growth of Wayne Taylor Racing, notably acting as a mentor to Ricky and Jordan Taylor. Lunch was served at Osaka Sushi in New Smyrna, Florida, with the song “Bonkerz” by Where’s Lulu taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

A staple of 1980s and 1990s sportscar racing, Juan Fangio II is one of the greats of IMSA GTP racing. The nephew of Juan Manuel Fangio, one of Formula One’s greatest, Fangio II embarked on a career unique to himself, and carving a path that you’d never expect given his namesake. One of the greats from Argentina, Juan is a true gentleman and has the stories to back it up. Dinner was served at El Casco de Fangio, the Private Estate of the Fangio family, with the song “Summetime Boss’s” by Wessley Thomas taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Tony Kanaan is a modern legend of IndyCar racing. Enjoying a career that spanned across four decades, the 2004 IndyCar champion became synonymous with hard luck at the Indianapolis 500 before finally taking the checkered flag after years of trying. A longtime fan favorite, Tony’s real story begins off the track with his father, making a promise unlike any other. Also available to watch on MotorTrend, this dinner was served at Fernando’s Brazilian and Mexican Cuisine in Broad Ripple, Indiana, with the song “Extrano” by Tania Matus taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Tony Kanaan is a modern legend of IndyCar racing. Enjoying a career that spanned across four decades, the 2004 IndyCar champion became synonymous with hard luck at the Indianapolis 500 before finally taking the checkered flag after years of trying. A longtime fan favorite, Tony’s real story begins off the track with his father, making a promise unlike any other. Also available to watch on MotorTrend, this dinner was served at Fernando’s Brazilian and Mexican Cuisine in Broad Ripple, Indiana, with the song “Mau Mau” by La Nata taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

As part of our video documentary series, “Kidnapping Fangio,” available on MotorTrend’s YouTube channel, we are proud to present a series of extended interviews through our podcast. In this final installment, we present two different interviews. The first is with Juan Fangio II, who is not only the nephew of Juan Fangio but a champion driver in his own right, having won multiple IMSA GTP Championships. Growing up in the family, Juan II was raised with the stories from the era, shedding light on the personal side of the incident. Lupe Fuentes is Cuba’s leading expert on the incident, representing Proyecto Cultural Amigos de Fangio, an organization committed to preserving the memory of the incident in Cuba. Lupe was also joined by our dedicated Cuban liaison, Robert Ordaz, who plays the role of interpreter. Dinner with Juan II was served at El Casco de Fangio, Fangio’s private estate, in Balcarce, Argentina. Dinner with Lupe was at Fangio Havana in Cuba’s Claxon Hotel. The song “Juan” is courtesy of Tarante Groove Machine. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

As part of our video documentary series, “Kidnapping Fangio,” available on MotorTrend’s YouTube channel, we are proud to present a series of extended interviews through our podcast. In this third installment, we meet with one of the foremost experts on Fangio History, Fernando Barragan. As the head of the Fundacion Fangio, an Argentina-based organization committed to preserving the heritage of Juan Manuel Fangio, Fernando greeted us with open arms in Argentina, including driving and guiding us through Balcarce, Argentina, the home of Fangio. Dinner was served at El Casco de Fangio, Fangio’s private estate, in Balcarce. The song “Kidnap Juan Fangio” is courtesy of Sean Heckman, written for and featured in the Kidnapping Fangio series. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

As part of our video documentary series, “Kidnapping Fangio,” available on MotorTrend’s YouTube channel, we are proud to present a series of extended interviews through our podcast. In this second installment, we take a departure from racing to learn even more about the history of Cuba. A Professor in Cuban and Caribbean History at the University of Florida, Lillian Guerra is one of the foremost experts on the topic, which can be even further explored in her book “Heroes, Martyrs, and Political Messiahs in Revolutionary Cuba, 1946-1958.” Dinner was served courtesy of Hotel Eleo, located inside the University of Mom. The song “Veinti-Seis de Julio” is courtesy of Myles Nye and Sean Heckman, written for and featured in the Kidnapping Fangio series. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

As part of our video documentary series, “Kidnapping Fangio,” available on MotorTrend’s YouTube channel, we are proud to present a series of extended interviews through our podcast. In this first installment, we take a departure from racing to learn about the history of Cuba, a critical ingredient in leading to the famed 1958 kidnapping of the Formula One legend. An Associate Professor at the University of Miami, Michael Bustamante is well acquainted with 500-year long story that led to the 1958 Cuban uprising, told from someone who is not only an educator in the field, but also a descendant of a family who left shortly after. Dinner was served courtesy of Toro Toro, located inside Miami’s Intercontinental Hotel. The song “Saquen Los” is courtesy of Myles Nye and Sean Heckman, written for and featured in the Kidnapping Fangio series. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Larry Holt is one of the most respected and influential characters behind the scene in many motorsport paddocks. Effectively managing the motorsport programs of Multimatic, an international automotive design and manufacturing company, Larry and Multimatic have been part of an incredible roster of noteworthy sportscar programs, including the Ford GT, Porsche GTP, and upcoming Mustang GT3. What makes Larry a legend, however, is his one-of-a-kind demeanor and storytelling. Lunch was served courtesy of Annina’s Bakeshow and Catering in Goodwood, Canada, with Larry’s son Geoff taking us via his band STRNGR STRNGR and the song “Mech Force 10.” Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Larry Holt is one of the most respected and influential characters behind the scene in many motorsport paddocks. Effectively managing the motorsport programs of Multimatic, an international automotive design and manufacturing company, Larry and Multimatic have been part of an incredible roster of noteworthy sportscar programs, including the Ford GT, Porsche GTP, and upcoming Mustang GT3. What makes Larry a legend, however, is his one-of-a-kind demeanor and storytelling. Lunch was served courtesy of Annina’s Bakeshow and Catering in Goodwood, Canada, with Larry’s son Geoff taking us via his band STRNGR STRNGR and the song “Colonials.” Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

A product of IndyCar’s “Road to Indy” development program and eventually making his way to the top ranks, Dalton Kellett presents a unique perspective as someone who has never hidden his background or means to funding. Bringing personal sponsorship from his family’s business, K-Line, the maturity of the Toronto-raised driver has been repeatedly demonstrated by not only being upfront about his opportunities, but recognizing his own limitations and pursuing a degree in engineering simultaneously. Dinner was served courtesy of Miku Toronto in Toronto, Canada, with “Kuwait” by Vic Sage taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Ron Fellows is a legend in many categories. A legend of sportscar racing, a legend of Canadian racers, and a legend of the Corvette brand. The son of a preacher, Ron’s tenacity and willingness to risk everything and find himself in crushing debt has proven the investment needed for success, with the Canadian going from a home-built garage racer to a winner at Daytona and LeMans, largely through his famed ties with the Chevrolet Corvette, of which he was one of the original team members. Lunch was served courtesy of Shrimp Cocktail in Oshawa, Canada, with “Everything Changes” by A.M. Beef taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Bruce Canepa has defined the gold standard of vintage racing and restoration. A lifelong car guy growing up near Santa Cruz, California, Bruce’s incredible eye for detail and design has created a unique career path that has taken him from building model cars as a kid, to restoring some of the most renown classic cars today. Not just a racing builder, he’s an accomplished driver in his own right, competing in the top ranks of sportscar, dirt, hillclimb, and beyond. Dinner was served at Bruce’s Scotts Valley shop, Canepa Design, courtesy Back Nine Grill & Bar in Santa Cruz, California, with “Rock it Tonight” by Milano taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Adrián Fernández is a one-of-a-kind story with deep roots in IndyCar and sportscar racing. Raised with modest means in Mexico City, the idea of tenacity is redefined with his story, literally having himself smuggled to the Netherlands with no money to further his career, and eventually becoming a multi-time winner in IndyCar and IMSA, many of which were achieved with his own team. Beyond that, his legacy is probably best seen with re-invigorating the next wave of Mexican racing heroes, paving the way for many of today’s names. Dinner was served courtesy of Bulla in Coral Gables, Florida, with “Miami Beach” by Cosmonkey taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Adrián Fernández is a one-of-a-kind story with deep roots in IndyCar and sportscar racing. Raised with modest means in Mexico City, the idea of tenacity is redefined with his story, literally having himself smuggled to the Netherlands with no money to further his career, and eventually becoming a multi-time winner in IndyCar and IMSA, many of which were achieved with his own team. Beyond that, his legacy is probably best seen with re-invigorating the next wave of Mexican racing heroes, paving the way for many of today’s names. Dinner was served courtesy of Bulla in Coral Gables, Florida, with “On The Way” by Jonezen taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Alex Job is one of the most accomplished and respected team owners in the history of sportscar competition. Starting as an amateur racer balancing motorsport ambitions with a career in auto sales, the Florida native would use a rarely seen level of caution and calculation to slowly build his own racing team, Alex Job Racing, into a powerhouse that would not become one of the most heralded Porsche teams in history taking wins at Daytona, Petit Le Mans, and an unprecedented 10 victories at Sebring. Dinner was served courtesy of Rodello’s in Leesburg, Florida, with “Somewhere New” by Louis Island taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Pipo Derani is one of the most talked about characters in IMSA racing today. One of the most aggressive and unapologetic drivers in the GTP and prototype ranks, the Brazilian’s tenacity has to led to victories at Daytona, Sebring, and with a reputation of being as fast as they get. What makes Pipo interesting, however, is his completely opposite off-track character, being nothing but a polite and likable family man and a remarkably pleasant guest. Dinner was served courtesy of THE NOW DEFUNCT Maloko Miami in Miami, Florida, with “Don’t Look Anywhere” by Sara Flint taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Sebastien Bourdais is probably best known as the king of IndyCar (formerly ChampCar) racing throughout the mid-2000’s. Winning four-consecutive titles, the Frenchman was as dominant as you could get in that era, before heading off to careers in Formula One, returning to IndyCar, and now in the GTP ranks of IMSA. Fiercely analytical and incredibly honest about himself,Sebastien’s candor makes for a truly one-of-a-kind look at one of the sport’s quiet greats. Dinner was served courtesy of Il Ritorno in St. Petersburg, Florida, with “On Fait la Fete” by Bamton taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Sebastien Bourdais is probably best known as the king of IndyCar (formerly ChampCar) racing throughout the mid-2000’s. Winning four-consecutive titles, the Frenchman was as dominant as you could get in that era, before heading off to careers in Formula One, returning to IndyCar, and now in the GTP ranks of IMSA. Fiercely analytical and incredibly honest about himself,Sebastien’s candor makes for a truly one-of-a-kind look at one of the sport’s quiet greats. Dinner was served courtesy of Il Ritorno in St. Petersburg, Florida, with “Entre le Doigts” by Sara Benasouli taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Bill Lester is probably best known for his groundbreaking role within NASCAR, known as the first African American to earn a pole position in the Truck series as well as compete in a full season of NASCAR. What makes Bill such an interesting story, however, is his origins leading to this. Transforming himself from software engineer to club racer in amateur sportscars, Bill’s path to professional motorsports was anything but traditional. Dinner was served courtesy of Don Bonachon in Suwanee, Georgia, with “Ain’t Looking Back” by Richard Farrell taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Jim Downing may not be a household name in modern day racing, but his legacy has saved countless lives. A long-time sportscar racer and team owner in his own right, after achieving incredible success with Mazda and his famed Kudzu racing team, the lasting legacy of Jim will always be his co-invention and distribution of the HANS device, which took years to finally become a mainstay of modern safety in racing. Lunch was served courtesy of Henri’s Bakery and Deli in Brookhaven, Georgia. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

When it comes to sportscar engineers, especially in GT racing, Lars Giersing has long been a known figure in the paddock. Coming from a very non-traditional background, Lars is one of the most accomplished figures in the paddock without ever earning a degree, relying instead on incredible intuition and knowing how to shape any racing program. This has led to countless IMSA championships, wins at Daytona, Sebring, and beyond. Dinner was served at Zen Bistro in Daytona Beach, Florida, with the song “Island” by Christopher Young taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Filipe Albuquerque has become a staple of modern prototype racing. A winner at Le Mans, Daytona, and having driven for some of the most prolific teams including Audi’s legendary LMP1 program, the Portuguese driver is known for his talent on track and enthusiastic personality off of it. Lunch was was served at Bonefish Grill in Daytona Beach, Florida, with the song “Promised Land” by Dan Ayalon taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

A driver synonymous with BMW, Augusto Farfus is a legend of touring car, GT, and now prototype racing. Hailing from Brazil as a dominant driver in junior categories, Augusto came into the sport with a family history unlike any other, and transitioned it wins at venues like Macau, Spa, Nurburgring, Daytona, and more. Dinner was was served at Bonefish Grill in Daytona Beach, Florida, with the song “Hey Love” by Rex Banner taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Nick Tandy is considered one of best drivers in modern sportscar racing. A winner at Le Mans, Daytona, and just about every other race you can imagine, Nick is a current IMSA GTP driver for Porsche Penske, but his foundation is anything but traditional. Growing up in the UK racing mini stocks on ovals, his path to road racing greatness was far from obvious. Lunch was served to a very hung over Nick at Boondocks in Port Orange, Florida, with the song “Let’s Go” by Marc Robillard taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

When it comes to the Indianapolis 500, the novelty of “Bump Day” may be less talked about today, but the consequences can still be dire. For some, just making the race is a critical as it can be, as it was in 2008 for Pacific Coast Motorsports, who put it all on the line to be part of it. As part of our “Bumped” video series on MotorTrend, we now present the extended interviews with the people behind the scenes. The fifth and final episode is with General Manager Michael Harvey, his wife Joanna, and Tyler Tadevic’s wife Stephanie to show just how this sport can affect families, not just a race team. Dinner was served by Joanna Harvey in their then-Indianapolis home, with the song “Big Leagues” by Vic Sage taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

When it comes to the Indianapolis 500, the novelty of “Bump Day” may be less talked about today, but the consequences can still be dire. For some, just making the race is a critical as it can be, as it was in 2008 for Pacific Coast Motorsports, who put it all on the line to be part of it. As part of our “Bumped” video series on MotorTrend, we now present the extended interviews with the people behind the scenes. The fourth episode is with engineer Tim Lewis and crewman Daniel Martin who shed light on how the story affects more than just the drivers and owners. Dinner was served by Chanos Drive-In in Sean Heckman’s living room in Pasadena, CA, with the song “Yeah That’s Me” by Frank Bentley taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

When it comes to the Indianapolis 500, the novelty of “Bump Day” may be less talked about today, but the consequences can still be dire. For some, just making the race is a critical as it can be, as it was in 2008 for Pacific Coast Motorsports, who put it all on the line to be part of it. As part of our “Bumped” video series on MotorTrend, we now present the extended interviews with the people behind the scenes. The third episode is with driver Mario Dominguez who risked life and limb to make his dream a reality. Lunch was served in Mario’s condo complex in Mexico City, Mexico, with the song “Never Looking Back” by Veshza taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

When it comes to the Indianapolis 500, the novelty of “Bump Day” may be less talked about today, but the consequences can still be dire. For some, just making the race is a critical as it can be, as it was in 2008 for Pacific Coast Motorsports, who put it all on the line to be part of it. As part of our “Bumped” video series on MotorTrend, we now present the extended interviews with the people behind the scenes. The second is Part Two of our dinner with Team Owner and ringleader, Tyler Tadevic, who literally risked it all. Dinner was served via Tacoshop 760 at Tyler’s shop in Thermal, California, with the song “Finding Out As I Go” by Evening Traveler taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

When it comes to the Indianapolis 500, the novelty of “Bump Day” may be less talked about today, but the consequences can still be dire. For some, just making the race is a critical as it can be, as it was in 2008 for Pacific Coast Motorsports, who put it all on the line to be part of it. As part of our “Bumped” video series on MotorTrend, we now present the extended interviews with the people behind the scenes. The first is Part One of our dinner with Team Owner and ringleader, Tyler Tadevic, who literally risked it all. Dinner was served via Tacoshop 760 at Tyler’s shop in Thermal, California, with the song “Can’t Stop Won’t Stop” by Ian Post taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Paul Tracy has spent nearly half a century building himself as one of the unique characters of the sport. Whether you consider him one of the greats, one of the most polarizing, or simply one of the most fascinating, Paul’s place in the sport is without question. As part of our “Dinner(s) with Paul Tracy” video series, we follow up on our 2017 podcast with a video series, spending a week with him at his home. This episode is an extended version of our sit down with Paul and his partner Lisa at their home in Scottsdale, AZ, acting as a complimentary episode to our “Dinner with Racers” video series on MotorTrend’s YouTube and MotorTrend+ streaming, where you can see the story unfold in a two-part special. Dinner was served at Paul’s home courtesy of Lisa, with the song “Internet Girlfriend” by Asher Postman taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Paul Tracy has spent nearly half a century building himself as one of the unique characters of the sport. Whether you consider him one of the greats, one of the most polarizing, or simply one of the most fascinating, Paul’s place in the sport is without question. As part of our “Dinner(s) with Paul Tracy” video series, we follow up on our 2017 podcast with a video series, spending a week with him at his home. This episode is an extended version of our sit down with his mother and sister in Ontario, Canada, acting as a complimentary episode to our “Dinner with Racers” video series on MotorTrend’s YouTube and MotorTrend+ streaming, where you can see the story unfold in a two-part special. Lunch was served at State & Main in Pickering, with the song “The Walmart Parking Lot” by Leon Laudenbach taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Paul Tracy has spent nearly half a century building himself as one of the unique characters of the sport. Whether you consider him one of the greats, one of the most polarizing, or simply one of the most fascinating, Paul’s place in the sport is without question. As part of our “Dinner(s) with Paul Tracy” video series, we follow up on our 2017 podcast with a video series, spending a week with him at his home. This is the second of a two-part extended cut of our video interview with him, acting as a complimentary episode to our “Dinner with Racers” video series on MotorTrend’s YouTube and MotorTrend+ streaming, where you can see the story unfold in a two-part special. Dinner was served courtesy of his partner Lisa at his home in Scottsdale, AZ, with the song “Castle Heist” by Willpower taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Paul Tracy has spent nearly half a century building himself as one of the unique characters of the sport. Whether you consider him one of the greats, one of the most polarizing, or simply one of the most fascinating, Paul’s place in the sport is without question. As part of our “Dinner(s) with Paul Tracy” video series, we follow up on our 2017 podcast with a video series, spending a week with him at his home. This is the first of a two-part extended cut of our video interview with him. This is of course a complimentary episode to our “Dinner with Racers” video series on MotorTrend’s YouTube and MotorTrend+ streaming, where you can see the story unfold in a two-part special. Dinner was served courtesy of his partner Lisa at his home in Scottsdale, AZ, with the song “Unapologetic” by War Haven taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire for making it all happen.

Tammy Johnson and Martin Bannon are two key members of the Grand Prix on Long Beach. For Tammy, a three-decade run as the Director of Ticket Sales has made her a key fixture of the event, often serving as the first interaction for many event newcomers. With a profound ability to guide and customize the experience for nearly 200,000 people, Tammy’s role in making the event an experience for everyone is unmatched. When it comes to the sponsorship sales and marketing, however, Martin Bannon’s nearly 40-year role with the organization has also been a stable force in the event’s sustainability. Cultivating partnerships and maintaining relationships through the decades, Martin is uniquely qualified to discuss the trials and tribulations of fulfilling sponsor obligations on a track that is built and torn down every year. This is of course a complimentary episode to our “Dinner with Racers” video series on MotorTrend’s YouTube and MotorTrend+ streaming, where you can see the story unfold in a two-part special. Tammy’s lunch was served at Phil Trani’s in Long Beach, while Martin’s was served at King Taco, both with the song “Driving Cars onto Mars” by MILANO taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire and Acura for making it all happen.

Davey Carillo and Crandall Dickinson are two key members of Long Beach’s construction team. It’s hard to watch the race on TV, or even visit in person, and have any clue just what kind of challenges a temporary facility built on city streets of a busy downtown can create, and these two provide a great insight into just what it takes. This is of course a complimentary episode to our “Dinner with Racers” video series on MotorTrend’s YouTube and MotorTrend+ streaming, where you can see the story unfold in a two-part special. Lunch was served at Guadalupe’s Mexican Grill in Long Beach, CA, with the song “How the Story Goes” by Ge Filter Fish taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire and Acura for making it all happen.

If there is one name who’s routinely given credit for making sure the actual event of Long Beach happens, it’s Dwight Tanaka. A long-time member of the family, Dwight is the Director of Operations for the Grand Prix, but that title doesn’t do justice to the all-knowing and all-powerful Dwight who orchestrates everything it takes to put the weekend together. Now a family affair, Dwight’s son Jake has been a member of the organization since he was volunteered to work for his Dad at a young age. Now one of the senior members of the team, Jake is another instrumental part of the organization, for which he’s rewarded during race weekend by being a pace car driver. This is of course a complimentary episode to our “Dinner with Racers” video series on MotorTrend’s YouTube and MotorTrend+ streaming, where you can see the story unfold in a two-part special. Dinner was served at 555 East Steakhouse in Long Beach, CA, with the song “It’s Going Down” by SOURWAH taking us out. Thanks again to Continental Tire and Acura for making it all happen.