Don Hoevel
Don Hoevel's journey in the automotive world began in 1974, fueled by a passion for cars and hands-on craftsmanship. Starting at a gas station during an era when attendants still pumped gas and performed repairs, Don quickly honed his mechanical skills. His early experiences extended to working in various repair and machine shops while simultaneously indulging his love for racing by competing in go-kart events. This dedication ultimately led him to the prestigious Skip Barber Racing School, first as a student and later as a mechanic.
Don's expertise caught the attention of local Trans-Am racers, opening doors to professional opportunities. In 1984, he joined Tom Gloy Racing, a factory Ford/Lincoln Mercury team, where he contributed to Ford's first major championship victory since 1970. This success marked a turning point in his career, propelling him into the world of IndyCar racing with Newman/Haas Racing in 1986. Over the next 22 years, Don worked alongside some of the most iconic names in motorsport, including Mario and Michael Andretti, Nigel Mansell, Emerson Fittipaldi, Paul Tracy, Adrian Newey, Christian Damatta, Oriol Servia, Bobby Rahal, and more. His tenure included a decade as a crew chief, during which he achieved numerous race wins and a championship.
In 2008, Don shifted gears to focus on his family and launched Don Hoevel Racing Historic High Performance. With the support of loyal customers, he began preparing and supporting vintage race cars for prestigious events at venues like Road America, Laguna Seca, and Goodwood. His expertise also extended to prize-winning restorations showcased at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
Although his focus transitioned to vintage racing, Don briefly returned to professional endurance racing, making multiple runs at the 24 Hours of Daytona. Today, his time is devoted to vintage road racing, maintaining and restoring historic IndyCars, GT40s, and Cobras, ensuring that the legacy of high-performance automobiles continues to thrive.