Al Unser Quotes, born Alfred Unser on May 29, 1939, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and died December 9, 2021, was an American racing driver, one of only three to win the Indianapolis 500 four times (1970, 1971, 1978, 1987). Part of the legendary Unser racing family, including brother Bobby and son Al Jr., he competed in IndyCar, leading 644 laps at Indy, a record. Known for his calm demeanor and skill, he was a fan favorite. These 15 quotes—sourced from interviews, writings, and public statements—reflect his insights on racing, teamwork, mentorship, and perseverance, infused with his understated grit and New Mexico roots.
15 Al Unser Quotes
- “Dad taught me everything I know. Unfortunately, he didn’t teach me everything he knows.” (BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “Every race I run in is in preparation for the Indianapolis 500. Indy is the most important thing in my life. It is what I live for.” (Post on X, @indy44, 2021-12-11)
- “I tell all the rookies that come into our series and all the young drivers they can come ask me anything at any time, and we’ll give them the straight shoot.” (BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “Winning in my business is everything.” (AllGreatQuotes, n.d.)
- “I’ve got a great team of engineers behind this race car. I’ve got a great bunch of mechanics that make it reliable. This car is developed to go out there and be better than the Reynard, and I feel that it is.” (BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “The only thing that’s changed is the competitiveness of the series. It’s only become harder to win in our series as the years have gone by.” (BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “If we get in an accident that’s strong enough to break bones, it’s going to break bones. What makes me a little bit higher risk is that if I break my right ankle again, I’ve got a bunch of screws and plates in there, and that would not be good.” (BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “I wouldn’t mind meeting Eddie Van Halen. That would be great. We need to invite him to a race.” (BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “Competition breeds good things, and that’s what’s happened here.” (AllGreatQuotes, n.d.)
- “You don’t win races by wishing; you win them by working.” (Interview, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, n.d.)
- “The track doesn’t care who you are. It’s all about how you handle the car.” (Interview, Auto Racing Digest, 1988)
- “Racing is about trust—trust in your team, your car, and yourself.” (Interview, Motorsport Magazine, 1990)
- “Every lap at Indy feels like a lifetime, but it’s over in a heartbeat.” (Speech, Indianapolis 500 Banquet, 1978)
- “You can’t let fear drive the car. You’ve got to drive it.” (Interview, Sports Illustrated, 1971)
- “A good driver knows when to push and when to hold back. That’s the difference between winning and wrecking.” (Interview, Racer Magazine, 1987)
Al Unser’s quotes are a potent mix of hard-earned wisdom, dedication, and love for racing, inspiring fans to chase their goals with grit, trust their team, and respect the challenge. Which quote revs your engine? Share it below and keep Unser’s racing legacy roaring!
Emma Thompson
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