Paul Newman, 1925- 2008

“Paul Newman—a real American hero, an inspiration to me in much that I have attempted in my adult life. Not so much for the parts he played, but for the man that he was. He was one of Hollywood’s greatest. He could not only talk the talk on film but, more importantly, could walk the walk as a private citizen.”—NASCAR team owner Jack Roush.


“I have come to know his passion, humor and above all, his generosity. Not just economic generosity, but generosity of spirit. His support of the team’s drivers, crew and the racing industry is legendary. His pure joy at winning a pole position or winning a race exemplified the spirit he brought to his life and to all those that knew him. We will truly miss him.”—Carl Haas, co-owner of Newman/Haas/Lanigan Racing.

“Most of us knew him as Butch or Fast Eddie from the theater or from our living rooms at home. He was much more than a great actor. … Paul was a man of character who cared about the world and the people who lived in it. Putting a smile on a young person’s face and helping people in need was a virtue he excelled at.”—Michael Lanigan, co-owner of Newman/Haas/Lanigan Racing.


“He was just a great guy and truly loved everything about racing. He and I shared a true passion for motorsports in general, but specifically IndyCar racing. … Paul was one of a kind.”—IndyCar team owner and former driver Michael Andretti.


“We connected as racers, but Paul’s ideas of what we should do for charity is what really resonated with me the most. He set the bar, not only with his giving, but in how he gave. … Paul did it right, and he did it with class. He’ll be terribly missed.”—NASCAR driver Tony Stewart.


“He was dedicated to giving back to those less fortunate, and with each child we see, we honor his spirit and vision. Undoubtedly he has touched millions of lives.”—NASCAR driver Kyle Petty and co-founder of the Victory Junction Gang Camp, modeled after Newman’s Hole in the Wall Gang camps.


“He has been a great friend to Hendrick Motorsports. Rick (Hendrick) has a play day and puts a restrictor plate on the car and lets guys go out and drive around with half the horsepower. Numerous times, Paul has gone out on sticker tires, the plate off and run really quick laps. I was always so impressed with his driving ability and who he was as a person.”—NASCAR driver Jimmie Johnson.


“To all his fans worldwide and those close to him in our racing community, we share a deep sense of loss, but cherish the many fond memories we will forever carry with us.”—Tony George, chief executive officer of Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the founder of the Indy Racing League.

“I had the pleasure of driving for Mr. Newman in 1981 and I was richer for the experience. He was a man of class and he was also deservedly very highly regarded for his driving skills. The world is a poorer place today for his passing.”—Bobby Rahal, IndyCar team owner and former driver.


“He was a real racer and a great person.”—NASCAR driver and former open-wheel driver A.J. Allmendinger.