Sir Scott Dixon Honoured with Knighthood, Eyes Future Indy 500 Glory

New Zealand’s most celebrated motorsport figure, Sir Scott Dixon, has been awarded a knighthood in the recent New Year Honours list. Despite this prestigious recognition, Dixon expresses a sense of humility regarding the title. In an interview with RNZ, he remarked, “Just Scott is fine,” reflecting on his journey from a young boy racing go-karts at seven to becoming an icon in IndyCar.

With an impressive record of six IndyCar Championships and three victories at the prestigious 24 Hours of Daytona, Dixon also claimed the Indianapolis 500 title in 2008. Competing for Chip Ganassi Racing Teams since 2001, he holds the record for the most wins in IndyCar history, with a total of 59 victories and 142 career podiums. His contributions to motorsport were further acknowledged with his induction into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in March 2024.

Reflecting on his career, Dixon stated, “What has enabled me through my career is such a widespread outlook on life.” He credits his longevity in the sport to a combination of hard work and community involvement, emphasizing the importance of giving back. Outside of racing, he actively supports various charities, including CanTeen, St Jude, and Teen Cancer America.

Dixon’s aspirations remain firmly rooted in motorsport. He expressed a strong desire to compete in the Indianapolis 500 again, stating, “The fire still burns strong, the passion is very strong at the moment.” He aims for a seventh title at the iconic race, which would tie him with the legendary A.J. Foyt, a milestone that excites the champion.

As he approaches his 25th year in IndyCar, Dixon is looking forward to spending a rare summer in Aotearoa at the end of 2025. “It’s so good to be back,” he said, noting that his children have not been able to visit New Zealand for three years. He fondly recalled local favorites like the Big Ben mince and cheese pies and L&P, expressing a desire to enjoy the warmth of a summer barbecue back home.

When considering his future beyond 2026, Dixon emphasized the importance of seizing the right opportunities. “I’ve wholeheartedly decided to focus on racing at the forefront,” he explained, acknowledging that distractions could hinder his performance. He remains committed to representing New Zealand on the global stage, saying, “I love home and I’m always so proud to fly the flag of New Zealand wherever I can.”

As Dixon continues to build his legacy in motorsport, his recent knighthood serves as a testament to his achievements and unwavering dedication to the sport and his community.