Dreyer and Reinbold Racing announced Sunday that the team’s owner and found Dennis Reinbold has passed away at age 65.
A native of Indianapolis, Reinbold found success in the car dealership business and helped form a race team in the year 2000.
The team raced full seasons through 2012, but then switched focus largely to an Indianapolis 500 only effort. At times the team fielded up to four cars in the race, with the best Indianapolis result a fourth place in 2012.
Reinbold’s team has contested every Indy 500 since its formation, and the team’s statement indicates that it will continue to do so even after its founders passing.
“We are heartbroken to share the news that our owner, leader, and friend, Dennis Reinbold, has passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family,” read the team’s statement. “We ask you to join us in supporting the Reinbold family and respecting their privacy during this painful time.
“Dennis was a proud son of Indianapolis. He built a successful family of automobile dealerships across the state, and he loved the community of Indianapolis that gave him so much in return.
“That same devotion fueled his passion for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway—its history and the relentless pursuit of an Indy 500 win drove him every day. We can think of no better way to honor Dennis than to chase a victory in the 111th Running of the Indianapolis 500.
“We ask race fans to join us in remembering the man, his passion for our sport, and the memories we shared.”
Decades of participation
For many, Dreyer and Reinbold Racing has been a constant presence at the Indianapolis 500.
The team’s only win came in its debut event at Walt Disney World Speedway in 2000, but the team’s passion continued on throughout the past 26 years with Dennis at the helm.
Reinbold was a privateer among a field of larger, corporate race teams, but always held his own on track.
He fielded two cars in each of the past five events, with past Indy 500 champion Ryan Hunter-Reay driving the #23 entry for three of those years.
Hunter-Reay offered a few words about Reinbold shortly after news of his passing was announced.
“Devastating in so many ways,” said Hunter-Reay on social media. “Lost a true friend, leader, fierce competitor, family man.
“He embodied the essence of pure passion for the Indy 500 and IndyCar.”
Conor Daly, who drove for Reinbold on a couple occasions including this past year, also made a post on social media after his passing.
“Dennis, what a pleasure it has been to be a part of your organization over the years. The passion for IndyCar racing you had and the tremendous culture you built within the team is something to be extremely proud of.
“Can’t thank you enough for the chance to compete at the front of the Indy 500. Wish I could have got one for you this year. We will miss you, my friend. #RIP”