At a Glance
- Scott Dixon, six-time IndyCar champion, knighted in New Zealand’s New Year honors.
- Award recognizes his motor-sport achievements and charity fundraising.
- He was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2024.
- Why it matters: The knighthood celebrates a New Zealander’s global racing success and community impact.
Scott Dixon, the celebrated New Zealand-born racer who has dominated IndyCar for two decades, was named a Knight Commander of the New Zealand Order of Merit as part of the country’s New Year honors.
A New Title for a Racing Legend
Six-time champion Scott Dixon received the knighthood for services to motor sport. Born in Australia to New Zealand parents who later moved to Auckland, he has spent 23 consecutive seasons with Chip Ganassi Racing, racking up 58 wins, 142 podiums, and 32 pole positions from 380 starts. He has claimed the IndyCar championship in 2003, 2008, 2013, 2015, 2018, and 2020.
Scott Dixon said:
> “I’ve been called a lot of things, but I never thought that ‘Sir’ was going to be one of them. That was kind of crazy. Totally out of the blue … You automatically go back to the start like the first time driving a go-kart and then all the rest of the memories happened at warp speed.”
Prime Minister Praises Dixon’s Impact
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon praised Dixon’s contributions, saying:
> “Sir Scott is a hero to young New Zealand motor sport fans and his work fundraising for children’s charities is invaluable.”
Career Milestones
| Category | Count |
|---|---|
| Seasons with Ganassi | 23 |
| IndyCar Wins | 58 |
| Podiums | 142 |
| Pole Positions | 32 |
| Championships | 6 |
Scott Dixon began his career with karting titles in Australia and New Zealand before moving to the United States, where he competed in Indy Lights, CART, and IndyCar starting in 2003.
Key Takeaways
- Scott Dixon has earned a knighthood for his racing success and charitable work.
- He has 58 wins and 6 championships in IndyCar.
- The honor underscores New Zealand’s pride in a world-class athlete.
The knighthood marks a historic moment for a driver whose career has inspired fans and benefactors alike.
