In sad news for US motorsport, IndyCar legend Bobby Unser and NASCAR racer Eric McClue have passed away.

Anyone with a long memory for American motorsport will surely have an opinion on racing legend Bobby Unser - head of the Unser racing dynasty in the United States that includes no less than six family members taking on the jewel in the crown event, the Indy 500.

Unser Snr. took three race victories in the Indy 500 during his long career, joining brother Al in winning the great American race (4) to become the only siblings in the history of the sport to have tasted victory at the US venue.

“Bobby brought so much to Team Penske during his time with our team, including a memorable victory in the 1981 Indianapolis 500. Beyond his many wins and accomplishments, Bobby was a true racer that raised the performance of everyone around him.
“He was also one of the most colourful characters in motorsports. Throughout his time as a driver, a commentator and an ambassador of our sport, Bobby’s stories and his passion for racing were legendary.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with Lisa, the Unser family and Bobby’s many friends and fans during this difficult time.”
Roger Penske

Bobby Unser enjoyed a career that spanned from 1955 to hanging his helmet up at the conclusion of the 1982 season. Despite stepping away from driving duties, Unser would remain active in the sport with his roles in TV punditry and development work for German brand, Audi.

As well as prominent performances in IndyCar, Unser also proved to be rather useful at the Pikes Peak Hillclimb event, taking top honours at the venue 10 times - the last victory in 1986 coming some 12 years after his previous appearance at great hillclimb venue.

Bobby Unser passed away peacefully in his sleep at the grand age of 87, and is survived by his wife, Lisa; sons Bobby Jr. and Robby; and daughters Cindy and Jeri.

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Eric McClure​

In other sad news, it has been announced that 42-year-old former NASCAR regular Eric McClure has passed away this week - the Virginia native having lost his life on May 2nd according to an announcement from the McClure family.

Not one of the biggest names in North American racing, McClure was a mainstay of the NASCAR scene for a number of years, clocking up xxx events between 2004 and 2016, split between the main NASCAR cup series and the second tier Xfinity championship.

“The family of Eric Wayne McClure, former NASCAR driver, announces with great sorrow his passing on Sunday, May 2, 2021,” stated an announcement from the McClure family. “They would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support during this very difficult time.”

Eric McClue leaves behind his seven daughters and fiancée, Keira.

RaceDepartment offers its sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of both drivers in this difficult time.