Phil Krueger, 2-time Indy 500 starter, dies at 74

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Phil Krueger, a two-time Indianapolis 500 starter, has died at the age of 74. Krueger entered the Indy 500 ten times from 1981 through 1991, successfully qualifying for the race in 1986 and 1988. He recorded his best finish of 8th place in 1988, finishing four laps down. Krueger's racing career was marked by perseverance, as he continued to try to qualify for the Indy 500 even after failing to make the field for five consecutive years.

Why it matters

Krueger's story highlights the dedication and determination required to compete at the highest levels of motorsports, even for drivers without the resources of major teams. His ability to defy the odds and qualify for the Indy 500 twice, as well as record a top-10 finish, is a testament to his skill and passion for racing.

The details

Krueger, a native of Milwaukee, entered the Indianapolis 500 ten times from 1981 through 1991. He successfully qualified for the race in 1986 and 1988, with his best finish coming in 1988 when he placed 8th, four laps down. Krueger's racing career was marked by perseverance, as he continued to try to qualify for the Indy 500 even after failing to make the field for five consecutive years from 1982 to 1986 while driving for small, low-budget teams.

• Krueger entered the Indianapolis 500 ten times from 1981 through 1991.
• He successfully qualified for the race in 1986 and 1988.
• Krueger's best finish came in 1988 when he placed 8th, four laps down.
• Krueger died on February 9, 2026 after sustaining injuries from a fall at his home in Freetown, Indiana.