Wheldon family Honors Late Racer at St. Petersburg Grand Prix

Twenty years after Dan Wheldon’s historic victory in the inaugural Firestone Grand Prix of St.Petersburg on April 3, 2005, his legacy will be celebrated at the 2025 race. His wife, Susie Wheldon, and sons, Sebastian and Oliver Wheldon, will participate in pre-race ceremonies, marking a poignant return to the track where Dan achieved his first St.petersburg triumph.

The city of St. petersburg has permanently enshrined Dan Wheldon’s accomplishments. A section of the street circuit is now known as “Dan Wheldon Way,” and a winner’s monument near Turn 10 Grandstand stands as a tribute to the popular driver and local resident. This year’s race, starting March 2, will further honor his memory.

Sebastian Wheldon, a rising star in open-wheel racing, will drive one of the Honda Civic Type R pace cars. Following the parade lap, Susie Wheldon will wave the green flag, officially starting the 100-lap race and the 2025 season. St. Petersburg was Dan’s adopted hometown and remains home for the boys and I, Susie Wheldon said.For him to win the inaugural race here in 2005 was something special. What made it even more special was that his teammates, TK (Tony Kanaan), Dario (Franchitti) and Bryan (Herta), followed him across the finish line in an all Andretti 1, 2, 3, 4 podium sweep!

She continued, To be here with Sebastian and Oliver 20 years later – and for Sebastian to be driving a pace car in the parade lap – is really a full circle moment. And I am honored to wave the green flag for the start of the race. I have to thank Kim (Green) and Kevin (Savoree) and the entire IndyCar family for always making the boys and I feel supported. we are looking forward to an exciting race weekend.

Wheldon’s 2005 victory, leading 10 of the 100 laps, was part of an andretti Green Racing sweep. Bryan Herta secured the pole position, marking a notable milestone for the then-Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. This inaugural event was the first street race for the Indy Racing League and the first promoted by Kim Green and Kevin Savoree of Green Savoree Racing Promotions, who remain involved today. Wheldon’s success that year extended beyond St. Petersburg, culminating in an Indianapolis 500 win and the series championship.

“That first event back in 2005 was certainly a remarkable moment for both our race team and our company. Having Susie and Sebastian taking on these critically important roles brings back a lot of terrific memories, and also reminds us how much we’ve learned over two decades of organizing this race!”

Kim Green, co-owner, chairman and CEO of Green Savoree Racing promotions

Green added, Dan was a great racing champion of this event, the Indy 500 and the INDYCAR series. Kevin (Savoree) and I worked with Dan for the initial three years of his full-time INDYCAR career. It was a time filled with a lot of wins and lots of fun. We miss Dan.

“We truly appreciate Susie, Sebastian and Oliver joining us and our team to be a part of another spectacular event in St. Petersburg while commemorating Dan’s win and his amazing racing legacy,”

Kevin Savoree, co-owner, president and COO of Green Savoree Racing Promotions

The 21st annual Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding, taking place March 2, will feature the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, INDY NXT by Firestone, USF Pro 2000 presented by Continental Tire, USF2000 Presented by Continental Tire, and Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Michelin. Pre-race festivities include the INDYCAR Party in the Park on February 27th at north Straub Park, featuring driver appearances, music, and food trucks, and the 5K Run on the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg Track, benefiting the Police Athletic League of St. Petersburg. Tickets are available at gpstpete.com.

celebrating a Legend: How Dan WheldonS 2005 St. Petersburg Grand Prix Victory Continues to Inspire

Bold Beginning:

Imagine capturing a defining moment in racing history that continues to echo through the decades—a feat achieved by none other than Dan Wheldon during the inaugural Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.

Interview with Alex Martin, Racing Historian and Expert

Senior Editor: Dan Wheldon’s legacy was recently celebrated in the 2025 St. Petersburg Grand Prix, marking 20 years since his historic victory. Can you elaborate on why this win holds such a special place in Dan Wheldon’s racing career?

Alex Martin: Dan Wheldon’s victory in 2005 indeed holds a monumental place in motorsport history, especially for it’s symbolic undertones. This win wasn’t just about seizing a trophy; it marked a important chapter for Andretti Green Racing as they clinched a podium sweep with an all-Andretti lineup. Dan’s triumph in leading 10 of the 100 laps set a new benchmark and became a beacon of excellence for aspiring racers. His achievement is eternalized with the dedication of “Dan wheldon Way” and the winner’s monument at Turn 10, continually reminding us of his thrilling contribution not just to the race but to the community.

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Embedded Memorials:

– Dan Wheldon Way

– Winner’s monument near Turn 10

Senior Editor: Beyond his racing feats, the involvement of his family, including his wife and sons, in the 2025 race, seem to enhance this legacy further.What meaning does this family involvement carry for the wheldon name in racing?

Alex Martin: Families often carry forward the spirit and legacy of their loved ones, and for the Wheldons, this tradition isn’t different.Susie Wheldon and their sons, Sebastian and Oliver, embodying active roles in the 2025 race ignites a full-circle moment.Susie waving the green flag and Sebastian driving as one of the pace cars is not just a participation—it’s a celebration of resilience and continuity in the face of immense personal loss. Their involvement transcends personal tribute, serving as living memorials that bind the Wheldon legacy more deeply into the fabric of the racing world. This consistent presence underscores the family’s dedication to honoring Dan’s life and contributions, inspiring racers and fans alike.

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Full-Circle Moments:

– Family involvement

– Dan Wheldon’s legacy in racing

Senior Editor: Kevin Savoree and Kim Green of Green Savoree Racing Promotions have been integral to this event since its inception. Can you speak to their role and impact over the years?

Alex Martin: The partnership between Kevin savoree, Kim Green, and Dan Wheldon speaks volumes about collaboration triumphing in the face of challenges. Starting with the 2005 event, Savoree and Green were instrumental in creating a street race that would stand out in the Indy Racing League. Their association with Wheldon during his early INDYCAR career was more than professional; it was a symphony of passion, strategy, and innovation. As the stewards of the events over the years, their dedication has ensured that Wheldon’s legacy, along with the quality of these races, has never dwindled. Their commentary underscores a heartfelt tribute, accented by the legacy they continue to build alongside Susie, Sebastian, and Oliver.

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Key Figures:

– Kevin Savoree

– Kim Green

Senior Editor: With Dan Wheldon himself achieving victories beyond St. Petersburg, including an Indianapolis 500 win, how do his accomplishments continue to influence current racing strategies and dreams?

Alex Martin: Dan Wheldon’s career trajectory, highlighted by strategic excellence and unwavering courage, resonates across the racing realm. His success at St. Petersburg and the Indianapolis 500 illustrated his mastery over diverse racing environments. Today, his strategies and approach remain a blueprint for modern racers, who study his detailed feedback, tactical innovation, and competitive spirit. Wheldon epitomized the relentless pursuit of excellence, encouraging racers to push boundaries and strive for greatness, even in the face of adversity. Such an enduring influence motivates current and future generations to carve their own paths, fueled by the inspiration of a racing luminary.

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Enduring Influence:

– Racing strategies

– Indianapolis 500 legacy

Senior Editor: What can fans and racing enthusiasts expect from the upcoming Firestone Grand prix of St. Petersburg, marking yet another chapter in its storied history?

Alex Martin: As fans gather for this celebrated event in 2025, they can anticipate an exhilarating weekend imbued with nostalgia, excitement, and innovation.With the series, INDY NXT by Firestone, USF Pro 2000, USF2000, and Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup setting the stage, there’s a blend of established racing traditions with a vibrant, forward-moving lineup, making for an ever-evolving competition. Moreover, pre-race festivities like the INDYCAR Party in the Park and the 5K Run on the race track promise interactive and community-oriented experiences. Spectators can witness racing magic unfold on tracks historically molded by legends like Dan Wheldon,offering an everlasting tribute to his legacy and the broader racing heritage it inhabits.

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* Upcoming Events:

– Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg

– INDYCAR Party in the Park

Final Thought: As we reflect on Dan Wheldon’s monumental achievements and the enduring legacy he’s left behind, it’s unmistakable how these commemorations in the 2025 grand prix carry forward his spirit of innovation, passion, and excellence. This tribute not only celebrates a legendary career but inspires a continuous cycle of inspiration for fans around the globe. Let’s use our platforms to share these stories, joining in the conversation about Wheldon’s legacy and its radiating influence on the world of racing.Share your thoughts or memories about Dan Wheldon in the comments below or engage in the conversation on social media.