Sidney Crosby

Sidney Crosby, often referred to as 'The Next One,' is one of the greatest hockey players of his generation. Known for his incredible skill, leadership, and clutch performances, Crosby has left an indelible mark on the sport of hockey. Here are 15 fun facts that provide a closer look at the life and career of Sidney Crosby. These fun facts highlight the achievements and influence of a true hockey legend.
Sidney Crosby
1

Sidney Crosby was born on August 7, 1987, in Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, Canada, and began playing hockey at the age of two, showing prodigious talent from a young age.

2

Crosby was selected first overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2005 NHL Draft, often referred to as the 'Sidney Crosby Sweepstakes' due to the anticipation surrounding his entry into the league.

3

Crosby earned the nickname 'The Next One,' a reference to Wayne Gretzky's nickname 'The Great One,' due to the high expectations placed on him as a future superstar.

4

In his rookie season (2005-2006), Crosby became the youngest player in NHL history to record 100 points in a season, finishing with 102 points.

5

Crosby won his first Art Ross Trophy as the NHL's leading scorer in the 2006-2007 season, making him the youngest player to win the award at just 19 years old.

6

In 2007, Crosby became the youngest captain in NHL history, leading the Pittsburgh Penguins at the age of 19.

7

Crosby scored the 'Golden Goal' in overtime for Canada at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, securing a gold medal for Canada in men's ice hockey and creating one of the most iconic moments in the sport's history.

8

Crosby has won three Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins (2009, 2016, 2017) and was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 2016 and 2017.

9

Crosby is known for his incredible vision, hockey IQ, and ability to perform in clutch situations, often scoring game-winning goals and leading his team in critical moments.

10

Despite facing significant injuries throughout his career, including concussions that sidelined him for extended periods, Crosby has consistently returned to top form and remains one of the best players in the NHL.

11

Crosby has won the Hart Trophy as the NHL's Most Valuable Player twice (2007, 2014) and is a multiple-time winner of the Ted Lindsay Award, given to the league's most outstanding player as voted by his peers.

12

In addition to his NHL success, Crosby has represented Canada in multiple international tournaments, winning two Olympic gold medals (2010, 2014) and a World Championship gold medal in 2015.

13

Crosby is known for his humility and dedication to the game, often crediting his teammates for his success and maintaining a low profile off the ice.

14

Crosby's work ethic is legendary, with stories of his intense training routines and commitment to improving every aspect of his game.

15

Sidney Crosby's impact on hockey extends beyond his achievements on the ice, as he continues to inspire young players and fans around the world with his skill, leadership, and sportsmanship.

Valentino Rossi

Valentino Rossi, widely known as 'The Doctor,' is one of the greatest motorcycle racers in the history of MotoGP. With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, Rossi has captivated fans with his skill, charisma, and competitive spirit. Here are 15 fun facts that provide a closer look at the life and career of Valentino Rossi. These fun facts highlight the achievements and legacy of a true motorsport legend.
1

Valentino Rossi was born on February 16, 1979, in Urbino, Italy, into a family with a strong racing background; his father, Graziano Rossi, was also a motorcycle racer.

2

Rossi began his racing career in go-karts before switching to minibikes and eventually making his way to motorcycle racing, where he quickly made a name for himself.

3

Rossi is the only rider in history to win World Championships in four different classes: 125cc, 250cc, 500cc, and MotoGP.

4

He won his first World Championship in the 125cc class in 1997, and by 2001, he had claimed his first MotoGP World Championship.

5

Over his career, Rossi won a total of nine World Championships, including seven in the premier MotoGP class, making him one of the most successful riders of all time.

6

Rossi is known for his iconic number 46, which he has used throughout his career, a tribute to his father, who also raced with the same number.

7

His nickname, 'The Doctor,' is a mark of respect in Italy and reflects his meticulous approach to racing and his ability to 'operate' on the track.

8

Rossi is renowned for his incredible racecraft and ability to perform under pressure, often making dramatic comebacks and thrilling overtakes.

9

Rossi's rivalry with fellow riders, particularly Max Biaggi and Jorge Lorenzo, became legendary, adding to the drama and excitement of the MotoGP series.

10

In 2004, Rossi made a highly publicized move from Honda to Yamaha, where he helped turn the struggling team into a dominant force, winning multiple championships.

11

Rossi has won 115 Grand Prix races across all classes, making him second on the all-time list of Grand Prix victories, just behind Giacomo Agostini.

12

Off the track, Rossi is known for his charismatic personality and playful antics, including his elaborate post-race celebrations that often involved costumes and props.

13

Rossi founded the VR46 Riders Academy, which supports young Italian riders in their development and has produced several successful MotoGP competitors.

14

In addition to his motorcycle racing career, Rossi has also competed in car racing, including the Monza Rally Show and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, showcasing his versatility as a racer.

15

Valentino Rossi's impact on MotoGP is immeasurable, as he has inspired countless fans and riders around the world, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport even after his retirement in 2021.

Venus Williams

Venus Williams, one of the greatest tennis players of her generation, has made an indelible mark on the sport with her powerful game, athleticism, and resilience. As a trailblazer in women's tennis, Venus has inspired countless players and fans around the world. Here are 15 fun facts that provide a closer look at the life and career of Venus Williams. These fun facts highlight the achievements and influence of a true tennis icon.
1

Venus Williams was born on June 17, 1980, in Lynwood, California, and was introduced to tennis by her father, Richard Williams, who coached her and her sister Serena from a young age.

2

Venus turned professional at the age of 14 and quickly made a name for herself by reaching the final of the US Open in 1997, becoming the first unseeded female finalist in the Open Era.

3

Venus has won seven Grand Slam singles titles, including five Wimbledon titles and two US Open titles, making her one of the most successful female players in history.

4

 Alongside her sister Serena, Venus has dominated the doubles circuit, winning 14 Grand Slam doubles titles and three Olympic gold medals in doubles.

5

Venus is known for her powerful serve, which was once the fastest in women's tennis, clocking in at 129 mph at the 2007 US Open.

6

In 2002, Venus became the first African American woman to be ranked World No. 1 in the WTA rankings during the Open Era, a historic achievement in the sport.

7

Venus has played a significant role in the fight for equal prize money in tennis, and her advocacy led to Wimbledon awarding equal prize money to men and women in 2007.

8

Venus is the oldest player to have reached a Grand Slam final in the Open Era, achieving this feat at the age of 37 at the 2017 Australian Open.

9

Off the court, Venus is a successful entrepreneur, with her own interior design firm, V Starr Interiors, and a fashion line, EleVen, which promotes activewear for women.

10

Venus has been an advocate for healthy living and has adopted a plant-based diet to manage Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disease she was diagnosed with in 2011.

11

Venus has won a total of 49 WTA singles titles and 22 WTA doubles titles, showcasing her longevity and success in the sport.

12

Venus and Serena's rivalry on the court is one of the most famous in tennis history, with the sisters facing each other in nine Grand Slam finals, with Venus winning two of those encounters.

13

In addition to her tennis achievements, Venus has authored several books, including her memoir 'Come to Win,' which offers insights into her life and career.

14

Venus is known for her charitable work, including her support for various educational and community programs, as well as her involvement in the Equal Justice Initiative.

15

Venus Williams' impact on tennis and sports, in general, is profound, as she continues to inspire future generations of athletes with her determination, grace, and trailblazing achievements.

Alexander Ovechkin

  • Sport
Alexander Ovechkin, widely regarded as one of the greatest ice hockey players of all time, has had an illustrious career filled with record-breaking achievements, memorable moments, and personal milestones. From his early days in Russia to becoming a legend in the NHL with the Washington Capitals, Ovechkin's journey is both inspiring and fascinating. In this article, we’ll explore 15 fun facts that you may not know about the 'Great Eight'.
1

Ovechkin was the first overall pick in the 2004 NHL Draft, selected by the Washington Capitals.

2

He scored his first NHL goal on October 5, 2005, in his debut game against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

3

Ovechkin is known for his iconic 'hot stick' celebration after scoring his 50th goal during the 2008-09 season.

4

He became the first player in NHL history to win the Art Ross Trophy, Maurice Richard Trophy, Hart Trophy, and Lester B. Pearson Award in the same season (2007-08).

5

Ovechkin was named captain of the Washington Capitals in January 2010, a role he has held ever since.

6

He has a unique pre-game ritual where he eats the same meal of chicken parmigiana before every game.

7

Ovechkin is the fastest player in NHL history to reach 500 goals, achieving the milestone in just 801 games.

8

He has won the Maurice Richard Trophy, awarded to the NHL's top goal scorer, nine times as of 2023.

9

In 2018, Ovechkin led the Washington Capitals to their first-ever Stanley Cup victory, also winning the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.

10

Ovechkin has scored over 800 goals in his NHL career, placing him among the top goal-scorers in league history.

11

He is known for his physical style of play, often delivering hard hits while still being a prolific goal scorer.

12

Ovechkin's famous number 8 jersey is a tribute to his mother, who wore number 8 as a basketball player for the Soviet Union.

13

He has appeared in multiple international competitions, winning gold with Team Russia at the 2008, 2012, and 2014 IIHF World Championships.

14

Ovechkin married Russian model Anastasia Shubskaya in 2016, and they have two sons together.

15

Outside of hockey, Ovechkin is an avid soccer fan and has been spotted playing in charity soccer matches during the off-season.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Zlatan Ibrahimović, one of the most charismatic and talented footballers of his generation, is known for his incredible skill, physical presence, and larger-than-life personality. With a career spanning over two decades and numerous top clubs, Zlatan has become a global icon in the world of football. Here are 15 fun facts that provide a closer look at the life and career of Zlatan Ibrahimović. These fun facts highlight the achievements and influence of a true football superstar.
1

 Zlatan Ibrahimović was born on October 3, 1981, in Malmö, Sweden, to a Bosnian father and a Croatian mother, growing up in the tough neighborhood of Rosengård.

2

 Zlatan began playing football at the age of six and initially played for local clubs Malmö BI and FBK Balkan before joining Malmö FF, where he started his professional career.

3

 Ibrahimović has played for some of the biggest football clubs in the world, including Ajax, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, and LA Galaxy.

4

 Zlatan is known for his martial arts background, holding a black belt in taekwondo, which has influenced his acrobatic and powerful style of play on the football field.

5

 Ibrahimović is one of the few players to have scored in every minute of a football match during his career, showcasing his ability to find the net at any time.

6

 Zlatan has won league titles in four different countries: the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and France, making him one of the most successful footballers in terms of domestic league championships.

7

 Ibrahimović is Sweden's all-time leading goal scorer with 62 goals in 121 appearances for the national team, including some of the most spectacular goals in international football.

8

 Zlatan is known for his confidence and bold personality, often making headlines with his memorable quotes, such as 'I came like a king, left like a legend,' and 'Zlatan doesn't do auditions.'

9

 Ibrahimović scored one of the most famous goals in football history in 2012, a 35-yard overhead bicycle kick against England, which won the FIFA Puskás Award for Goal of the Year.

10

 Despite his success, Zlatan has never won the UEFA Champions League, one of the few accolades missing from his otherwise illustrious career.

11

 Ibrahimović has been named Swedish Footballer of the Year (Guldbollen) a record 12 times, cementing his status as Sweden's greatest-ever footballer.

12

 Off the pitch, Zlatan is a successful businessman, with his own clothing line, A-Z Sportswear, and several endorsements, making him one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.

13

 Ibrahimović is fluent in multiple languages, including Swedish, Bosnian, English, Italian, and Spanish, reflecting his international career and cultural background.

14

 Zlatan made a triumphant return to AC Milan in 2020 at the age of 38, proving that age is just a number as he continued to score goals and lead the team with his experience.

15

 Zlatan Ibrahimović's impact on football is undeniable, as he continues to inspire fans with his unique style, unmatched confidence, and extraordinary achievements both on and off the pitch.

Vitaliy Klitschko

Vitaliy Klitschko, a former world heavyweight boxing champion, is known not only for his dominance in the ring but also for his role as a political leader in Ukraine. With an impressive boxing career and a commitment to public service, Klitschko has made a significant impact in both sports and politics. Here are 15 fun facts that provide a closer look at the life and career of Vitaliy Klitschko. These fun facts highlight the achievements and influence of a true heavyweight champion and leader.
1

Vitaliy Klitschko was born on July 19, 1971, in Belovodsk, Kyrgyzstan (then part of the Soviet Union), and grew up in Ukraine, where he and his brother Wladimir developed a passion for boxing.

2

Klitschko began his boxing career as a kickboxer and won several amateur championships before transitioning to professional boxing in 1996.

3

Known as 'Dr. Ironfist,' Vitaliy earned a PhD in Sports Science, making him one of the few boxers with a doctorate degree.

4

Klitschko was the first professional boxing world champion to hold a PhD, further showcasing his dedication to both academics and sports.

5

He held the WBC heavyweight title three times and was known for his powerful punches, solid defense, and incredible resilience in the ring.

6

He is one of the few heavyweight champions in history to have never been knocked down in any of his professional fights.

7

Klitschko's career was marked by his legendary toughness, including his famous bout against Lennox Lewis in 2003, where he continued fighting despite a severe cut above his eye, leading the fight until it was stopped by the doctor.

8

Klitschko retired from boxing in 2005 due to injuries but made a successful comeback in 2008, regaining the WBC heavyweight title and defending it multiple times before retiring for good in 2013.

9

Vitaliy and his brother Wladimir Klitschko dominated the heavyweight division for years, holding all major world titles between them and becoming one of the most successful sibling duos in boxing history.

10

After retiring from boxing, Klitschko transitioned into politics and became the Mayor of Kyiv, Ukraine, in 2014, a position he continues to hold.

11

Klitschko is a prominent figure in Ukrainian politics and played a key role during the Euromaidan protests in 2013-2014, advocating for democracy and European integration.

12

Klitschko's political career is marked by his efforts to combat corruption, improve infrastructure, and promote transparency in government.

13

Klitschko is fluent in multiple languages, including Ukrainian, Russian, German, and English, which has aided his international presence both in sports and politics.

14

He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2018, recognizing his contributions to the sport and his legacy as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.

15

Vitaliy Klitschko's impact extends beyond boxing, as he continues to serve as a leader and advocate for his country, demonstrating his commitment to both his people and his principles.

Sidney Crosby

Sidney Crosby, often referred to as 'The Next One,' is one of the greatest hockey players of his generation. Known for his incredible skill, leadership, and clutch performances, Crosby has left an indelible mark on the sport of hockey. Here are 15 fun facts that provide a closer look at the life and career of Sidney Crosby. These fun facts highlight the achievements and influence of a true hockey legend.
1

Sidney Crosby was born on August 7, 1987, in Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, Canada, and began playing hockey at the age of two, showing prodigious talent from a young age.

2

Crosby was selected first overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2005 NHL Draft, often referred to as the 'Sidney Crosby Sweepstakes' due to the anticipation surrounding his entry into the league.

3

Crosby earned the nickname 'The Next One,' a reference to Wayne Gretzky's nickname 'The Great One,' due to the high expectations placed on him as a future superstar.

4

In his rookie season (2005-2006), Crosby became the youngest player in NHL history to record 100 points in a season, finishing with 102 points.

5

Crosby won his first Art Ross Trophy as the NHL's leading scorer in the 2006-2007 season, making him the youngest player to win the award at just 19 years old.

6

In 2007, Crosby became the youngest captain in NHL history, leading the Pittsburgh Penguins at the age of 19.

7

Crosby scored the 'Golden Goal' in overtime for Canada at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, securing a gold medal for Canada in men's ice hockey and creating one of the most iconic moments in the sport's history.

8

Crosby has won three Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins (2009, 2016, 2017) and was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 2016 and 2017.

9

Crosby is known for his incredible vision, hockey IQ, and ability to perform in clutch situations, often scoring game-winning goals and leading his team in critical moments.

10

Despite facing significant injuries throughout his career, including concussions that sidelined him for extended periods, Crosby has consistently returned to top form and remains one of the best players in the NHL.

11

Crosby has won the Hart Trophy as the NHL's Most Valuable Player twice (2007, 2014) and is a multiple-time winner of the Ted Lindsay Award, given to the league's most outstanding player as voted by his peers.

12

In addition to his NHL success, Crosby has represented Canada in multiple international tournaments, winning two Olympic gold medals (2010, 2014) and a World Championship gold medal in 2015.

13

Crosby is known for his humility and dedication to the game, often crediting his teammates for his success and maintaining a low profile off the ice.

14

Crosby's work ethic is legendary, with stories of his intense training routines and commitment to improving every aspect of his game.

15

Sidney Crosby's impact on hockey extends beyond his achievements on the ice, as he continues to inspire young players and fans around the world with his skill, leadership, and sportsmanship.

Ronaldo

Ronaldo Luis Nazário de Lima, often simply known as Ronaldo, is one of the most legendary footballers in history. Nicknamed 'O Fenômeno' (The Phenomenon), Ronaldo's speed, technique, and goal-scoring ability made him a global icon in the sport. Here are 15 fun facts that offer a closer look at the life and career of Ronaldo. These fun facts highlight the achievements and legacy of one of football's greatest strikers.
1

Ronaldo was born on September 18, 1976, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and began playing football on the streets of his neighborhood, showcasing his talent from a young age.

2

Ronaldo made his professional debut at the age of 16 with Cruzeiro, where he quickly gained attention by scoring 44 goals in 47 appearances.

3

At just 17 years old, Ronaldo was part of Brazil's 1994 FIFA World Cup-winning squad, although he did not play in any matches during the tournament.

4

Ronaldo became the youngest player to win the FIFA World Player of the Year award in 1996, at the age of 20, and went on to win the award three times (1996, 1997, 2002).

5

In 1997, Ronaldo transferred to Inter Milan for a then-world record fee, where he became a fan favorite and earned the nickname 'Il Fenomeno' in Italy.

6

Despite suffering from serious knee injuries during his career, he made a remarkable comeback to win the Golden Boot as the top scorer of the 2002 FIFA World Cup, leading Brazil to victory.

7

Ronaldo's two goals in the 2002 World Cup final against Germany secured Brazil's fifth World Cup title and cemented his status as one of the greatest players of all time.

8

Ronaldo is one of only a few players to have played for both FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, two of the fiercest rivals in football, and is loved by fans of both clubs.

9

Ronaldo is the second-highest goal scorer in World Cup history, with 15 goals, a record that stood until it was broken by Miroslav Klose in 2014.

10

During his career, he won two Ballon d'Or awards (1997, 2002) and was included in the FIFA 100 list of the greatest living players, selected by Pelé.

11

Ronaldo was known for his incredible dribbling, explosive pace, and clinical finishing, making him nearly unstoppable when at his best.

12

After retiring, Ronaldo has remained involved in football, becoming a successful businessman and purchasing a controlling stake in the Spanish club Real Valladolid.

13

Ronaldo is often credited with revolutionizing the role of the modern striker, combining physical strength, technical skill, and intelligence in a way that had not been seen before.

14

Despite his success on the field, Ronaldo faced numerous challenges, including overcoming a life-threatening knee injury in 1999 that many thought would end his career.

15

His legacy in football is unmatched, with many fans and players considering him one of the greatest, if not the greatest, strikers in the history of the game.

Conor McGregor

  • Sport
Conor McGregor, one of the most polarizing and successful figures in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), is known for his brash personality, knockout power, and incredible charisma. As a former UFC Featherweight and Lightweight Champion, McGregor has achieved unprecedented success both inside and outside the octagon, becoming a global icon in the process. His journey from humble beginnings in Dublin, Ireland, to becoming one of the highest-paid athletes in the world is a story of determination, confidence, and skill. In this article, we’ll uncover 15 fun facts about Conor McGregor that provide a deeper insight into his extraordinary life and career.
1

Conor McGregor was born on July 14, 1988, in Dublin, Ireland, and started boxing at the age of 12 to defend himself against bullies.

2

Before pursuing a career in MMA, McGregor was an apprentice plumber, but he quit his job to focus on fighting full-time.

3

McGregor made his professional MMA debut in 2008 and quickly gained a reputation for his striking power and confidence.

4

He became the first fighter in UFC history to hold titles in two weight divisions simultaneously, winning the Featherweight and Lightweight championships.

5

McGregor's knockout victory over Jose Aldo in just 13 seconds at UFC 194 is the fastest title fight finish in UFC history.

6

Known for his trash-talking and psychological warfare, McGregor often uses mind games to gain an advantage over his opponents before they even step into the octagon.

7

He made his professional boxing debut against Floyd Mayweather in 2017, in one of the most lucrative fights in combat sports history, although he lost by TKO in the 10th round.

8

McGregor's catchphrase, 'We're not here to take part, we're here to take over,' has become iconic among his fans.

9

Despite his brash persona, McGregor is known for his generosity, having donated large sums to hospitals, children's charities, and other causes in Ireland.

10

McGregor launched his own whiskey brand, Proper No. Twelve, in 2018, which quickly became a commercial success worldwide.

11

He became the first MMA fighter to make Forbes' list of the world's highest-paid athletes, ranking No. 1 in 2021, largely due to his earnings from the Mayweather fight and business ventures.

12

McGregor has headlined five of the six highest-selling pay-per-view events in UFC history, underscoring his drawing power as a fighter.

13

He has been involved in several controversies outside the octagon, including legal issues and altercations, which have often made headlines.

14

McGregor has expressed interest in returning to boxing, potentially setting up a rematch with Floyd Mayweather or other boxing stars.

15

Despite the ups and downs of his career, McGregor remains one of the most influential figures in MMA, continuing to inspire and polarize fans around the world.

Michael Schumacher

Michael Schumacher is widely regarded as one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers in the history of the sport. His remarkable career and significant achievements have left a lasting legacy. Here are 15 fun facts about this racing legend:
1

Schumacher made his Formula 1 debut in 1991 with the Jordan-Ford team. He earned his first win just one year later at the 1992 Belgian Grand Prix while driving for Benetton-Ford.

2

Schumacher won seven Formula 1 World Championships (1994, 1995, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004), a record he shares with Lewis Hamilton. His dominance in the sport is unparalleled.

3

Schumacher's time with Ferrari from 2000 to 2004 was particularly notable. He led Ferrari to five consecutive Constructors' Championships during this period, a testament to his skill and consistency.

4

Schumacher holds numerous F1 records, including the most consecutive wins in a single season (7 in 2004) and the most wins in a single season (13 in 2004), among others.

5

Schumacher was the first German driver to win the Formula 1 World Championship, achieving this feat in 1994. He later won another championship with Benetton in 1995.

6

After initially retiring in 2006, Schumacher made a comeback with Mercedes in 2010, racing until 2012. His return was highly anticipated and showed his continued passion for the sport.

7

Schumacher has been actively involved in various charitable efforts. He supported causes related to health, education, and disaster relief, including substantial donations to various charities.

8

Schumacher’s life took a tragic turn in December 2013 when he suffered a severe head injury in a skiing accident. He has since been in recovery, with details of his condition remaining private.

9

Schumacher’s son, Mick Schumacher, has followed in his father’s footsteps and is a professional racing driver. Mick has competed in various junior categories and made his F1 debut in 2021.

10

Schumacher also holds the record for the most consecutive pole positions, a testament to his qualifying prowess. He achieved this feat between 2000 and 2001.

11

Schumacher was known for his distinctive helmet design, which featured a bright red color with various sponsor logos. The helmet became an iconic symbol of his career.

12

Schumacher played a mentoring role for several young drivers during his career, including helping to develop talent and offering guidance to teammates and juniors in the sport.

13

Beyond F1, Schumacher has been involved in other motorsport disciplines, including endurance racing. His versatility and skills extend beyond just Formula 1.

14

Schumacher’s impact on Formula 1 is immense. He is celebrated not only for his driving achievements but also for his work ethic, technical understanding of the sport, and contributions to its popularity.

15

Michael Schumacher’s extraordinary career and contributions to Formula 1 have established him as a true legend in the sport. These fun facts highlight why he remains an iconic figure in the world of racing.