"I met Bobby Rahal when I was there" - When Danica Patrick reflected on the career move that got her into IndyCar

Danica Patrick started her racing career in go-karts. After achieving several regional titles in karting, the American decided to make the move that accelerated her racing career. The 42-year-old appeared on the NTT IndyCar series YouTube channel in March 2021 and discussed the same and how Bobby Rahal got her into IndyCar.

Katie Keil asked Patrick if a significant step in her career made the biggest impact. Danica said (at 2:28):

“Yeah, probably going to England. I think going to England was a really big thing because that's what, well I ended up meeting Bobby Rahal when I was there, and then when I came back he saw that as very much dedication and committment to the sport. And so, I really think that going to England made the biggest difference in me getting a ride with Bobby. Once it took it's head, it was on its way.”

She decided to make the move to England all by herself after dropping out of high school. The American was backed by Ford and raced in the junior Formulas. Then Jaguar Team Principal Bobby Rahal organized a test for Patrick in F3. After struggling in the European championships, Danica returned to the US.

Patrick contacted Rahal after coming back and raced in the Toyota Atlantic Series in 2003 for Team Rahal. She moved to IndyCar for the 2005 season with Bobby Rahal’s team RLL. After a few impressive performances, she made the move to Andretti Racing. It was Rahal's connections and support that helped Patrick get an IndyCar seat after coming back to the US.

The Team Rahal owner recalled the time when Danica first stepped foot into IndyCar for his team.

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“She did a great job”: Bobby Rahal recalled Danica Patrick's IndyCar debut

Rolex 24 at Daytona - Source: Getty

Team Rahal (now RLL) was amongst the top teams during the 2004 IndyCar season. When Danica Patrick stepped into the scene in 2005, she had experienced drivers as teammates in the form of Vitor Meira and Buddy Rice. The 42-year-old didn't have to worry about setting up the car with Meira and Rice already taking care of it. The Team Rahal owner recalled the most difficult part of Danica's debut.

Bobby Rahal said in April 2018 (via IndyCar.com):

“She did a great job. The most difficult job she had all month was – we were by her side every step of the way – was just the immense amount of publicity that had descended upon her that month.

He continued, “The press, they invaded. They invaded our garages, our hospitality tent that we had. All they could talk about was Danica Patrick. She dealt with that really well. It could have been overwhelming. I’m sure at times it was, but I thought she did a very good job with it.”

Danica Patrick was the first woman in IndyCar who was competitive and challenged for race wins. She continues to be the benchmark for female drivers in IndyCar.