Extended interview: David Letterman on Indy Car racing
David Letterman & Tracy Smith: A Dynamic Connection at Indy Car*In an intimate interview with correspondent Tracy Smith, comedian David Letterman shared a unique bond with auto racing.*
*Letterman, a self-proclaimed " industrystatistic," was no stranger to the world of motorsports. Born in 1948 in Boston, he grew up with race cars and began his competitive career at age 6 as a minor league driver. By the time he hit high school, Letterman was already known for his acumen, and by college, he had established himself as a prodigy.*
*Tracy Smith, a sharp, observant correspondent on CBS’s * Indy Car*, was no stranger to this electrifying pastime either. Over the years, they chatted endlessly about Letterman’s lifelong passion for auto racing and his role as a co-owner of Rahal-Letterman-Lanigan Racing.*
*As Letterman sat down with Tracy, he shared his story of how he was always drawn to the thrill of driving a car that combined speed, excitement, and pure power. “I’ve always wanted to be part of the race,” he said, referencing California Speedway’s iconic track.*
*Tracy, however, had no intention of speaking directly with Letterman. Instead, she delved into his career as a team owner and rider, sharing his perspective on how he had built the company from scratch through his passion for racing.*
*Letterman elaborated, explaining that he started as a co-owner when Newman’s car took over California Speedway in 1957. “I had to give him the keys,” he said, nodding proudly at the thought of managing an entire team.*
*Tracy and Letterman connected further at this crucial stop. Letterman mentioned how he felt a deep connection to the sport both on the track and in his professional life. “It’s like a tiny universe where everything is about speed,” he added, referencing California Speedway.*
*During their interview, Letterman even shared personal moments tied to the race, recalling how he had driven Newman’s car around the track at least once before the event itself. “I think I saw it in front of me and thought, ‘This is fun.’” Tracy noted.*
*As Letterman exited the interview, he was clearly more than just a comedian on *Indy Car*. He was also a fan. “Tracy, we always talk about the cars,” Letterman said with a smile. “They’re like a family.”
*The dynamic between Letterman, Smith, and Rahal-Letterman-Lanigan Racing has never been more personal.*
*In an interview later that week, Letterman shared how the team had grown from his son in the mid-1970s to a formidable force of professional racing. “I think we’ve built a huge following,” he said, touching on how the brand now encompasses all of his contributions.*
*Tracy and Letterman continued their conversation throughout the week, sharing insights about the sport and Letterman’s ongoing journey as a racing legend.*
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