Franchitti had a long and successful spell in the IRL, and capped that era with both an Indianapolis 500 win in 2007, followed up by the IRL title later in the year. He then made a switch to NASCAR in 2008 and also won Daytona that year but then struggled and so he returned back to the IRL, where he won the title again in 2009 and then again in 2010. Won his 3rd Indy in 2012 and was still one of the top drivers in the series until a massive accident led to spinal and head injuries, which although recoverable, were too severe to continue racing full-time. Now works as an ambassador for the sport, and advisor, and was awarded the MBE in the 2014 Queen's Birthday Honours. Was married to Hollywood actress Ashley Judd, but they separated in 2013. In 2019, he became Vice-President of the British Racing Drivers Club. He also works as a television commentator and works with Gordon Murray on supercar development.

Biography last updated 30 Dec 2021