Gil de Ferran, the winner of the 2003 Indianapolis 500 and CART World Series Champion in 2000 and 2001 for Penske Racing, has passed away at the age of 56. It was under Roger Penske that Ferran reached the heights of his career. The French-born Brazilian made inroads in the world of motorsports in British Formula Three and then reached the pinnacle of his discipline in the USA with Penske.

De Ferran did reach some impressive heights in his career in America. He still holds the record for the fastest closed-circuit qualifying lap speed ever at 241.4 mph (388.5 kmph). According to the Associated Press, de Ferran suffered a heart attack while competing with his son at the Concourse Club in Florida. After the news of his demise, the motorsports community mourned the loss.

Roger Penske and Jimmie Johnson react to the loss of Gil de Ferran

More than a racer, de Ferran always received much love from the fans and his team members. IndyCar legend Roger Penske and former NASCAR champion, Jimmie Johnson sent out their condolence and strength to de Ferran’s family. Team Penske shared the statement by their chairman, Roger Penske on Instagram.

The statement read, “We are terribly saddened to hear about today’s tragic passing of Gil de Ferran. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Angela, Anna, Luke and the entire de Ferran family. Gil defined class as a driver and as a gentleman. As an INDYCAR champion and an Indianapolis 500 winner, Gil accomplished so much during his career, both on and off the track.”

“Gil was beloved by so many. He was a great friend to the Team Penske and INDYCAR family, as well as the entire international motorsports community. Gil’s passing is a terrible loss, and he will be deeply missed.” The NASCAR icon Johnson also followed Penske in sending out heartfelt remarks. He wrote, “Gil, you will be missed in so many ways. Thank you for your friendship and support through the years. Sending love to your beautiful family.”

Read More: “Rest in Peace”- Indy 500 Champ & Legend Gil de Ferran’s Sudden Demise Leaves Racing Community Devastated 

It was not just the motorsports legends but the entire community sent in their heartfelt messages on the passing of Gil de Ferran.

Fans react to the passing away of Gil de Ferran

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As mentioned in the message by Penske stated, De Ferran was loved by so many, on and off the track. This was signified after his passing as messages from the world over poured in mourning his loss. Fans shared one of their best memorable moments by de Ferran along with the messages. Here are some of the best bunch.

A user remembered him as a guy defining the IndyCar series at a point in time, “Gil de Ferran at one time defined IndyCar. #RIP”.

Another user was in shock and disbelief following his death, “We are all devastated. Gill de Ferran will be missed terribly”.

A journalist recalled his first interview of De Ferran as a fan, “Gil de Ferran was the first
@IndyCar driver I ever interviewed as the Host for the IC Fan Village. It was super early am during 500 week & my 1st question, “What did you have for breakfast?” 😂. He laughed. He was awesome. He will be missed. #RIPGil #Indycar.”

A fan labeled him as the fastest man on the ground, he wrote, “The fastest man on the ground. A man who made motorsport history. Thanks for the memories, Gil De Ferran.”

Gil de Ferran will surely remembered for the racing joy and excellence he showcased in the world of motorsports.

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