(WXIN/WTTV) — Racing legend Parnelli Jones has at the age of 90, sources have confirmed to FOX59/CBS4.
Born in 1933 in Texarkana, Ark., Rufus Parnell "Parnelli" Jones was a legendary driver and team owner known for competing in many types of vehicles including IndyCars. A representative of Borg Warner confirmed Jones' death Tuesday night.
Jones won the 47th running of the Indianapolis 500 in 1963 and famously broke down while in the lead in 1967. During his time as a team owner, Parnelli won the 1970 and 1971 races with driver Al Unser.
At the time of his death, Jones was the oldest living winner of the Indy 500.
Outside of the 500, Jones was known for other accomplishments in the racing world such as becoming the first driver to ever qualify over 150 miles per hour in 1962 and participating in the Baja 1000 race. He raced IndyCars, midget cars, stock cars, sprint cars, ORVs and more during his career.
Roger Penske released the following statement Tuesday night following the death of Parnelli Jones:
“The racing world has lost a great competitor and a true champion. Parnelli Jones was one of the most accomplished racers in history, and his determination and will to win made him one of the toughest competitors I have ever seen. From racing against him on track to competing against him as a fellow team owner, I always respected Parnelli’s passion and commitment to the sport he loved. I was proud to call Parnelli a good friend for many years, and our thoughts are with his family as we remember one of the true legends of motorsports.”
IMS President J. Douglas Boles also praised Parnelli's racing legacy, calling him a "total icon."
"In over 115 years of racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, there have been many iconic moments and a handful of iconic drivers. Parnelli Jones was a total icon, both for his driving skill and the magical moments he created in the Indianapolis 500. He will always be known for his speed, talent and fearless approach, and for his personal demeanor and character. The first to officially break 150 mph at Indy, he also will be remembered for driving the famed STP turbine to near-victory in 1967 and as the winning Indy 500 owner in 1970 and 1971. His fingerprints on our sport go well beyond the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. A winner in virtually everything on wheels including USAC, NASCAR and off-road racing, he is truly one of the most versatile competitors the sport has ever seen. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."