Racing Community World Mourns Heartbreaking Loss as Legendary IndyCar Team Owner Passes Away at 65
EssentiallySports
Last updated: June 15, 2026
This article memorializes Dennis Reinbold, owner of Dreyer & Reinbold Racing, who passed away on June 13, 2026, at age 65 after battling cancer. Reinbold, whose family has a century-long connection to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, dedicated his life to achieving a win at the Indy 500, a goal that ultimately eluded him despite his team's consistent qualification record.
- Key Facts: Dennis Reinbold, owner of Dreyer & Reinbold Racing (DRR), died on June 13, 2026, at 65, having quietly battled cancer.
- He inherited and continued a racing legacy established by his grandfather, Floyd "Pop" Dreyer, who began working at the Indy 500 in 1927.
- Reinbold took over the team in 1999, and under his ownership, every one of the 53 cars entered by DRR at the Indianapolis 500 successfully qualified, maintaining an unbroken streak.
- His last race attended was the 110th Indy 500 on May 24, 2026, where his team's cars finished 12th and 22nd.
- A particularly close call for a win occurred in 2025 when Ryan Hunter-Reay led late in the race but ran out of fuel.
- The article highlights Reinbold's deep local roots in Indianapolis, running a year-round local crew and partnering with local businesses, making DRR a symbol of the city.
- Tributes reflect the respect and affection Reinbold garnered, with fans noting his kindness and the significant gap his passing leaves in the racing community, joining other notable figures from IndyCar history.
