Lucas Oil Founder Forrest Lucas Dies at 83

Forrest Lucas, the Indiana-born founder of Lucas Oil Products and namesake of Lucas Oil Stadium, passed away at age 83. Rising from a childhood marked by poverty and hardship in rural Indiana, Lucas built a $500 million empire through his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for motorsports. He founded Lucas Oil in 1989 with his wife Charlotte, growing it into a globally recognized brand in automotive oils and additives, deeply intertwined with motorsports sponsorships. Lucas forged one of the longest and most impactful sponsorship deals in NHRA drag racing history, becoming the official oil of the NHRA and lending his name to multiple major events and facilities, including Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. His legacy includes generous support for numerous racers and championship teams, reflecting his lifelong commitment to the sport and community. Lucas's impact on motorsports and his philanthropic spirit continue to inspire many following his passing.