The Unsers: Through Tragedy and Success to Victory Lane

Indianapolis, IN — One of the most iconic families in the history of auto racing is being honored by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum with a once-in-a-lifetime exhibit, The Amazing Unsers: From Albuquerque to Indianapolis. The display opened April 9 and runs through Oct. 28.


Photo: Fritz Frommeyer

Fritz Frommeyer’s column in the current May/June Vintage Motorsport issue (18.3) provides additional insight on the exhibit.


Twenty-five cars that the Unser family drove in competition are on display, including eight of the nine that took them to victory in the Indianapolis 500, starting with the Rislone Eagle that powered Bobby Unser to victory 50 years ago next month.


“For the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum to honor my family is just tremendous. It’s really hard to put into words how much it actually means,” said Al Unser Jr., two-time Indianapolis 500 winner. “As you go through the exhibit, you’ll see my dad’s career, my uncle Bobby’s career, my whole family’s career on display here; it’s just a huge honor and we’re very excited and we truly hope everyone enjoys what we’ve put our heart and soul into.”


In addition to several of the IndyCars made famous by the Unsers, many incredible machines representing their career in USAC, road racing and NASCAR are on display, some for the first time. Also included is rare memorabilia from the drivers and an audio tour, hosted by Al Unser, Al Unser Jr., Bobby Unser, Parnelli Jones and Roger Penske.


“Every wall and room in my house is filled with racing memorabilia — even the kitchen,” said Bobby Unser, three-time Indianapolis 500 winner. “I have sent some very special items to Indianapolis to share with everyone — from each of my three Indianapolis 500 wins, Pikes Peak, National Championships, Champ cars, sprint cars, Formula 1 and lots of other special races,” he said.


Get museum hours and admission info.