Santino Ferrucci’s Memorable Day at Road America

In the sweltering heat of Road America, Santino Ferrucci had an unforgettable Sunday that went beyond just racing. Finishing in third place, he not only celebrated his achievement on the podium but also paid heartfelt tribute to his late sponsor, Marlyne Sexton. With the cheers of the crowd and a celebratory beer tossed his way, Ferrucci’s day was a blend of victory and remembrance.

A Tribute to Marlyne Sexton

The day was particularly significant as it marked Ferrucci’s second podium finish in just three races, and his fifth top-five result in four consecutive races. Driving the #14 car, adorned with special livery dedicated to Marlyne Sexton—who had passed away just a week prior—Ferrucci felt the weight of the moment. The presence of Marlyne’s daughters, Tracy and Nicole, at the track added to the emotional atmosphere.

"It was hard not to feel emotional. Marlyne was part of the family, and without her, I wouldn’t have had a full season with Foyt. For me, it was an honor to race with her on this car today," Ferrucci expressed, visibly moved by the experience.

Since joining the team in 2023, the financial backing from Sexton Properties—Marlyne’s company—has been pivotal. It not only kept Ferrucci on the track but also contributed to the growth of AJ Foyt Racing. Just over a year ago, the team struggled to secure a position in the Leader Circle, but the current scenario paints a different picture: the team is now consistently among the top ten in the championship standings and has become a formidable competitor.

Navigating Extreme Conditions

The race at Road America was not just challenging because of the fierce competition; the extreme weather added another layer of difficulty. With temperatures soaring to 96°F (36°C), the physical demands and tension stretched through to the final lap. After crossing the finish line in third place, Ferrucci’s car ran out of fuel, leaving it to coast to a stop at the end of the main straight.

As he waited for assistance, he was met with bottles of water and even a beer tossed by a fan—an offer he gladly accepted. The heat and the occasion called for celebration.

"I asked for a Spotted Cow since we’re in Wisconsin, but someone threw me a Miller. That’s fine! I learned how to shotgun a beer at the Chili Bowl, so if I nailed it, I’m happy. This one’s for my dirt track partner!" Ferrucci joked, reveling in the moment.

Adapting to Team Changes

Another noteworthy aspect of Ferrucci’s performance has been his swift adaptation to changes within the team’s engineering lineup. After the season commenced, engineer Michael Armbrester was promoted to technical director of AJ Foyt Racing, remaining on the pit wall as a strategist. This transition paved the way for Adam Kolesar to step in as the new race engineer.

Typically, mid-season engineering changes can take time for drivers to adjust, but Ferrucci’s performance has remained strong. He finished fifth at Indianapolis, second in Detroit, fifth at Gateway, and now third at Road America.

"It feels a bit strange to switch engineers mid-season, but I think we’re doing really well. We’ve found a solid setup base, and I’m excited for the second half of the season. The team deserves this," Ferrucci concluded.

With this latest result, Ferrucci moved up to the 11th position in the championship standings. This progress illustrates that with consistent effort and a positive atmosphere, even teams that previously struggled at the back of the grid can compete with the best in the sport.

The Road Ahead

Ferrucci’s journey this season serves as a testament to resilience and dedication. His ability to thrive under pressure, adapt to changes, and pay homage to those who have supported him reflects a deep commitment not only to racing but to the community surrounding it.

As the season progresses, the focus for Ferrucci and AJ Foyt Racing will be on maintaining this momentum. With each race, they continue to prove that hard work and determination can yield remarkable results. The spirit of Marlyne Sexton lives on through the team’s efforts, pushing them to strive for excellence on and off the track.

Ferrucci’s experience at Road America is not just about racing; it embodies a celebration of life, community, and the bonds that tie us together in the world of motorsports. The journey ahead promises more challenges and triumphs, but with the support of his team and fans, Ferrucci is ready to take on whatever comes next, fueled by passion and a legacy that inspires him to give his all.

Whether it’s the thrill of competition or the shared moments of joy and remembrance, Ferrucci’s racing story is one filled with heartfelt connections, making each lap a tribute to those who have played a vital role in his journey. As he prepares for the upcoming races, the memory of Marlyne Sexton will undoubtedly continue to inspire him and the entire AJ Foyt Racing team.