Video: Mario Andretti – racing’s most versatile driver

14th May 2026

Annabel Heaton

Mario Andretti’s career spanned five decades and redefined what a racing driver could accomplish. His unparalleled ability to win across Formula 1, IndyCar and NASCAR combined with his relentless competitive drive cemented his status as a motorsport idol, beloved by fans to this day.

But to understand the real Mario Andretti, beyond the icon, we went straight to the source. As we gear up for the Americana Celebration presented by Bank of America at the Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard, this latest episode of The Tyrrell Shed Interviews explores Andretti’s earliest recollections motorsport to his journey to the pinnacle.

Festival of Speed

Americana celebrations will bring a unique atmosphere to the 2026 Festival of Speed

Against the backdrop of the classic John Player Special-liveried Lotus 79 that he drove to the F1 World Championship in 1978, Andretti recounts the tale of his early career that eventually led him to Team Lotus, where he was instrumental in helping to redefine modern racing aerodynamics. That era was all about pioneering ground-effect technology, and Andretti revealed exactly how he and his team perfected a revolutionary concept.

An hour of conversation with one of the preeminent characters in American motorsport? Sounds like the perfect way to get excited for all things to come at the Festival of Speed this summer. But for now, sit back and soak up the Andretti story from the legend himself.

Tickets for the Festival of Speed are limited. Friday, Saturday and four-day passes are now sold out, and Thursday tickets are selling fast. If you’re not already part of the GRRC, joining the Fellowship means you can save ten per cent on your 2026 tickets and grandstand passes, as well as enjoy a whole host of other on-event perks.