On this day: 1987 – Andretti triumphant in fastest race in history

Sport360 staff 23:34 01/08/2015
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  • The man behind the wheel - Michael Andretti.

    The name Andretti is synonymous with all motorsport fans and on this day in 1987, Michael Andretti set a blistering record as he stormed to victory in Marlboro 500 in Michigan.

    A 24-yearold Andretti smashed the average speed record for the Indy car with an average speed of 171.490 miles per hour.

    In racing to his historic win in the 1987 Marlboro 500, Andretti benefited from the bad luck of his father, Mario Andretti, one of the most successful auto racing drivers of all time.

    The elder Andretti’s engine fell after he built a two-lap lead, and his son was able to overtake him. Andretti then held off Al Unser Sr. and Bobby Rahal over the last 94 laps to win.

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