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The Indianapolis 500 may have been changed forever by one man, a reminder that it takes more than talent to become a legend.
It also takes overcoming adversity, and that’s exactly what Bobby Rahal did at the 1986 Indy 500. He not only won the race, but delivered a career-defining finish with a late pass for the lead on Kevin Cogan. And his mark on Indy 500 and INDYCAR history is chronicled in a new documentary titled “Bobby Rahal: True American Racer,” produced by FOX Sports, Big Machine Racing Productions and Chassy Media.
The win served as an emotional tribute to car owner Jim Trueman, who battled cancer and died a few days later.
“The 1986 Indy 500 changed the course of my life forever,” Rahal said in the trailer, which was released Tuesday ahead of the May 8 premiere.
After winning, Rahal cemented his legacy as a CART star by capturing two more championships in 1987 and 1992 before retiring in 1998 with 24 career wins. He later became a successful team owner, forming Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing and winning again, but as an owner.
Rahal’s impact on the Indy 500 extends beyond his 1986 victory, as he helped shape the modern era of INDYCAR through both his success as a driver and his leadership as an owner.
He continues that legacy to this day with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, the team he co-founded and remains a constant presence at the Brickyard. His son, Graham Rahal, carries on the family name this year, driving the No. 15 Honda for the organization.
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The documentary will premiere on May 8 on FOX at 7:30 p.m. ET. It will also highlight the emotional stakes during 1986, the deep bond between Rahal and Trueman and the strategy behind one of the most famous restarts in Indy history.
Along with Rahal, the documentary features Al Unser Jr., Brian Redman and Bryan Herta, with Trueman appearing via archival footage. Together, they reconstruct the defining moments and emotional weight of one of INDYCAR’s most iconic races.
The 110th running of the Indy 500 will take place on May 24 at 12:30 PM ET on FOX.
