News & Multimedia

IMS Statement On Passing Of Chris Economaki

September 28, 2012 | By Paul Kelly

Legendary motorsports journalist Chris Economaki died Sept. 28. He was 91.

Economaki served as an editor, publisher and columnist for National Speed Sport News for more than 60 years. He also was a reporter and commentator for racing broadcasts on network television and radio, including coverage of the Indianapolis 500 for ABC and the IMS Radio Network.

In 2006, the Trackside Conference Room at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Media Center was renamed the Economaki Press Conference Room in honor of Economaki’s legendary accomplishments.

“Chris was the dean of motorsports journalism,” said Jeff Belskus, Indianapolis Motor Speedway president and chief executive officer. “His accurate, incisive reporting helped increase the audience of the sport and put the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, its events and competitors into the global spotlight. He set a standard for others to follow for generations and will be deeply missed. Our thoughts, sympathies and prayers are with his family and friends.”