LEGENDARY NHRA drag racer Don Schumacher made a name for himself in the sport during the 60s and 70s.
On December 21, 2023, it was revealed that the iconic racer passed away at 79 years old — here's everything to know about the life and death of Don Schumacher.
Who was NHRA drag racer Don Schumacher?
Don Schumacher was a former drag racer born on November 4, 1944, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Don began his racing career as a Funny Car match racer winning the 1972 Coca-Cola Cavalcade of Stars.
The motorsports star built a successful career taking home several accolades.
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In 1974, Don retired from the sport to open his own business, Schumacher Electric Corp., which manufactures battery chargers.
The company went on to become a global corporation today.
However, Don returned to the sport in 1998 as a team owner for Don Schumacher Racing, now known as The Maynard Family Racing.
What was Don Schumacher's cause of death?
On December 21, 2023, it was revealed that icon Don Schumacher passed away after a private battle with lung cancer.
Don's family announced the news on DSR Performance, saying: "It is with heavy hearts that the Schumacher family announce the passing of motorsports icon Don Schumacher.
"The NHRA team owner and Funny Car pioneer had spent the past several months privately battling lung cancer before succumbing to illness-related complications on Wednesday, December 20."
Don Schumacher is survived by his wife Sarah, and their four children: Tony, Megan, Tara, and Samantha.
When did Don Schumacher begin racing?
Don began racing in the '60s as a Funny Car match racer.
Throughout his career, Don took home a 1973 AHRA World Championship win and has won nine IHRA events.
According to the Motorsports Hall of Fame, Don has won 70 percent of the 560 matches he's raced in.
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Due to his impressive career, Don was inducted into the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame in 2007.
In 2022, Don was honored with the NHRA's Lifetime Achievement Award.
Who is Don Schumacher's son, Tony?
Tony went on to follow in his father's footsteps in becoming a famous drag racer.
Tony began his career in 1996 as a Top Fuel dragster. He helped his father build The Maynard Family Racing.
Throughout his career, Tony has won 86 times — having been classified as an eight-time champion.
In addition to his racing career, Tony is married with three kids.
