Canada has a long and proud history of auto racing players, with its drivers and teams having achieved success in both local and international events.
From the legendary Jacques Villeneuve to the more recent successes of James Hinchcliffe and Robert Wickens, Canada has produced many top-tier drivers who have achieved success in various racing disciplines.
We’ll take a look at some of the best auto racing players in Canada, highlighting their racing careers and notable achievements.
1. Jacques Villeneuve
Jacques Villeneuve is a Canadian racing driver with an impressive track record. He was crowned the Formula One World Champion in 1997 with Williams, an accomplishment that has made him a household name in the racing world.
He has also achieved success in other forms of motor racing, winning the 1995 Indianapolis 500 and the 1995 PPG Indy Car World Series.Apart from his driving skills, Jacques is also an avid musician.
His ability to combine a talent for driving and music has made him a unique figure in the sport.Jacques Villeneuve has achieved a great deal of success in his racing career and continues to be a popular figure in the sport.
He has gained respect from fellow drivers and fans alike, and is a great example of how hard work and dedication can lead to success. His ability to combine his two passions – racing and music – has given him an edge that makes him stand out from the rest.
2. Peter Ryan
Peter Barry Ryan was an American-born Canadian racecar driver from Mont-Tremblant, Quebec. He is known for his short yet successful career in Formula One racing. Ryan had the opportunity to compete in one Grand Prix, which was the 1961 United States Grand Prix at Watkins Glen.
He finished in ninth place, but unfortunately did not score any championship points.Ryan had a brief racing career, but it was a successful one. Despite being American-born, he chose to compete as a Canadian driver and was well-known for his skill behind the wheel.
His performance in the 1961 Grand Prix showcased his talent and he was able to finish in a respectable position. Unfortunately, he did not score any championship points as a result of the race, but his performance still earned him recognition in the racing world.
Despite his short career, Ryan made a mark in the racing world. He showed that he had the skill and ability to compete against the best drivers in the world.
His performance at the 1961 Grand Prix at Watkins Glen was a testament to his talent, and although he did not score any championship points, he was still able to finish in a respectable position. He will certainly be remembered for his brief but successful racing career.
3. Alex Tagliani
Alexandre Tagliani, often referred to as “Tag”, is a professional racing driver from Canada. He currently competes full-time in the NASCAR Pinty’s Series and drives the No. 18 Chevrolet Camaro for 22 Racing.
Tagliani has competed in a variety of racing disciplines, including open-wheel, stock car, and sports car racing.Throughout his career, Tagliani has achieved many successes. He has won multiple races in the Pinty’s Series, including the 2019 Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières.
In addition, Tagliani has competed in the IndyCar Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series, and the Rolex Grand-Am Sports Car Series.
In 2003, Tagliani made history by becoming the first Canadian driver to compete in the Indianapolis 500.Tagliani is a highly respected driver in the racing community. He is known for his professionalism, determination, and dedication to the sport.
Tagliani is an ambassador for several organizations, including the Canadian Cancer Society and the Diabetes Hope Foundation.
He is also a strong advocate for the racing community, frequently speaking out on the importance of safety and fair treatment for drivers and teams.Overall, Tagliani is one of Canada’s top professional drivers.
His impressive career and inspiring story have earned him the respect and admiration of many fans. He continues to make history in the racing world and will no doubt continue to do so for years to come.
4. James Hinchcliffe
James Douglas Meredith Hinchcliffe is a professional race car driver who hails from Canada. He is an IndyCar Series veteran and is well-known for being an accomplished driver in the sport.
Hinchcliffe has had an impressive career, winning six races for the Andretti Autosport and Schmidt Peterson Motorsports teams. He has also made a name for himself as a commentator, providing insightful analysis of the sport.
Hinchcliffe is a respected figure in the racing world and is an inspiration for aspiring racers. He is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and skill necessary to succeed in the IndyCar Series.
5. Alex Guenette
Alex Guenette is a Canadian professional stock car racing driver from Quebec. He currently participates in the NASCAR Pinty’s Series, driving the No. 3 car for Team 3 Red/Ed Hakonson Racing. In addition, he takes part in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, driving the No.
36 Chevrolet Camaro for DGM Racing. Guenette is an experienced racer, having won numerous awards and titles in a variety of racing disciplines. In the NASCAR Pinty’s Series, he won the 2014 and 2015 Rookie of the Year awards, as well as the championship in 2016.
He also won the NASCAR Pinty’s Series Most Popular Driver award in 2017. In the NASCAR Xfinity Series, he has raced in over 20 events, with six top-ten finishes.
Guenette’s passion for stock car racing began at a young age, and he has been competing professionally for almost a decade. His skill and dedication to the sport have earned him the admiration and respect of his fellow competitors.
With a bright future ahead of him, Alex Guenette is a driver to watch in the world of professional stock car racing.
6. Bert Brooks
Bert Brooks was a Canadian racecar driver born in Fredericton, New Brunswick. He had a passion for racing that led him to attempt two USAC Championship Car races, including the highly esteemed Indianapolis 500, in 1961.
Unfortunately, his attempts were unsuccessful as his times were not fast enough to qualify for the races. Despite his failure to qualify, Bert Brooks remains an inspiration for aspiring Canadian racers.
He showed that, despite the odds, Canadian racers can compete on an international level. His story is a reminder that with dedication and hard work, anyone can achieve their dreams.
7. Ed Kostenuk
Ed Kostenuk was a USAC IndyCar racecar driver who competed in the sport from 1962 to 1964. During his short career, he made six starts, however, he failed to qualify for the 1962 Indianapolis 500.
His best finish was eleventh place, which he achieved in 1964.Kostenuk had a relatively short career as a racecar driver, but he managed to make a name for himself.
During his time in the sport, he made six starts, and while he was unable to qualify for the 1962 Indianapolis 500, he was able to achieve a best finish of eleventh place in 1964.
This is an impressive feat, as the Indianapolis 500 is one of the most prestigious races in the world.Despite his short career, Kostenuk left a lasting impression on the racing world.
His determination and ambition are an inspiration to those who strive to succeed in the racing industry. His story stands as a reminder that anything is possible, and that no matter the odds, success can be achieved with hard work and dedication.
8. Lance Stroll
Lance Strulovitch, who is more popularly known as Lance Stroll, is a Formula One racing driver who represents Canada in the world championship. He is a Canadian-Belgian, born in Canada to a Belgian father and a Canadian mother.
Stroll has been a part of the Formula One circuit since 2016, when he first joined Williams. In 2019, he moved to Racing Point and achieved his first podium finish at the 2020 Eifel Grand Prix. 2021 saw Stroll join Aston Martin, where he is currently driving for the team.
He is the first Canadian driver since 1997 to race for a Formula One team. Stroll is widely regarded as an up-and-coming talent in Formula One, and he is sure to continue to make a mark on the sport in the coming years.
9. Allen Berg
Allen Bernard Berg is a renowned Canadian racing driver with an impressive career in the motorsport world. He is best known for his time with the Osella team in Formula One.
Berg began his career in racing in the late 1970s, participating in Formula Atlantic, Formula Pacific, and Formula Super Vee series. He quickly made a name for himself and was eventually signed to the Osella team to compete in Formula One.
At the time, Osella was a relatively small team, but Berg quickly adapted and began to make a name for himself. He competed in the 1984, 1985, and 1986 seasons with the team, and achieved a career-best finish of 5th in the 1985 San Marino Grand Prix.
He also scored a point at the 1986 Canadian Grand Prix, finishing in 6th place. Despite showing promise, Berg ultimately left the team at the end of the 1986 season.
He went on to compete in the International Formula 3000 Championship and the World Sportscar Championship, with some success, but eventually retired from racing in the early-1990s.
Allen Bernard Berg is an important figure in Canadian motorsport history, and will always be remembered for his time with the Osella team in Formula One. His achievements serve as an inspiration to young Canadian racers, and his legacy will live on.
10. Gilles Villeneuve
Joseph Gilles Henri Villeneuve was an iconic Canadian racing driver. He had a successful career in Formula One racing, which lasted for six years, from 1977 to 1982.
During this time, he drove for the legendary Ferrari team, winning six Grands Prix and becoming one of the most beloved drivers in the sport.Villeneuve’s career was marked by his remarkable skill and talent.
His skill behind the wheel was evident in his ability to consistently put his car at the front of the pack, often defying expectations and emerging as the leader of the race. He was also renowned for his daring and fearless maneuvers, which often left his opponents in awe.
This combination of skill and daring earned him the respect of both his fellow drivers and the fans.Aside from his impressive performances in the Grand Prix races, Villeneuve also became known for his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.
He was known to spend countless hours in the garage, meticulously preparing and tuning his car, and always striving to find the extra edge that would give him an advantage over his rivals.Due to his success, dedication and passion for racing, Villeneuve was given the nickname “The Quebec Warrior”.
He was a beloved figure in his native Canada, and is still remembered fondly by racing fans today. His legacy lives on, and he remains an inspiration to aspiring racers around the world.
11. Bill Brack
William Brack is a former racing driver from Canada.
He is best known for his participation in Formula One and the Atlantic Championship.Born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Brack initially became interested in auto racing in the early 1960s, when he started racing Minis on ice tracks in Huntsville, Ontario.
This was his introduction to the motorsport world and he went on to compete in numerous races across the country.Brack’s career in Formula One began in 1994 when he entered the Canadian Grand Prix.
He went on to participate in other Formula One events, including the US Grand Prix in 1995 and the Australian Grand Prix in 1998.
In the Atlantic Championship, he was a consistent competitor, finishing in the top five in each event.Brack is highly respected among the racing community and is known for his skill and dedication to the sport.
He has earned awards and accolades throughout his career, including being inducted to the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame in 2009.Today, Brack is retired from professional racing but still remains active in the motorsport community.
He serves as an ambassador for the Canadian Motorsports Hall of Fame and frequently attends events across Canada. He is also a regular speaker at motorsports events, sharing his knowledge and insights with aspiring racers.
12. Al Pease
Alan “Al” Victor Pease was an accomplished British-Canadian motor racing driver, born in Darlington, England.
He was a well-known figure in the motor racing world, and had an impressive career that spanned from the late 1950s to the mid-1970s.One of Al Pease’s most notable accomplishments was his unusual distinction of being the only driver to be disqualified from a Formula One World Championship race due to being too slow.
The race in question was held at the 1968 French Grand Prix, where Pease was driving a BRM P126.
Despite having a good qualifying time, Pease was unable to keep up with the pace of the race and was disqualified after only four laps.The disqualification was seen as a controversial decision at the time, with many spectators and fellow drivers believing that Pease’s slow speed should not have been considered a disqualifying factor.
However, the race organizers had to follow the rules and regulations set out by the FIA.
As such, Pease was forced to retire from the race and was not allowed to compete in any further Formula One races.Despite his short-lived Formula One career, Al Pease’s legacy in motor racing lives on.
He was known for his courage and determination to succeed, and his disqualification from the French Grand Prix only adds to his remarkable story.
His story serves as an important reminder that no matter the circumstances, it is important to always strive for excellence and to never give up.
13. Nicholas Latifi
Nicholas Daniel Latifi is a Canadian former racing driver who had a successful career in Formula One. Latifi made his Formula One debut in the 2020 Austrian Grand Prix, driving for Williams.
During his three full seasons with the Williams team, Latifi was able to accumulate nine championship points. His most notable performance came in the 2020 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, where he finished in 9th place and earned a single championship point.
Latifi’s Formula One career was characterized by his strong performance and consistent results. Despite never finishing higher than 9th, Latifi was able to consistently score points throughout the 2020, 2021, and 2022 seasons.
He also showed great speed in qualifying, out-qualifying his teammate on several occasions. Latifi’s Formula One career came to an end in 2022 when he signed with the Formula E racing series.
He is currently competing in the series, and has already achieved several podium finishes. Latifi is also a test driver for the Mercedes F1 team, demonstrating his continued commitment to motorsport. Overall, Nicholas Daniel Latifi’s career in Formula One was a successful one.
He showed great skill and determination in his three full seasons, and his experience in the series has helped to further his racing career. Latifi remains an important figure in the world of motorsport and is sure to remain a popular figure for years to come.
14. Eppie Wietzes
Egbert “Eppie” Wietzes was a Canadian racing driver with an impressive career. He was born in 1940 in Ontario, Canada and began his racing career in 1961. He was a two-time Canadian Driver’s Champion and finished in the top five at the Canadian Grand Prix in 1968.
He also competed in the Formula One championship, where he placed 5th at the United States Grand Prix, 4th at the French Grand Prix, and 6th at the British Grand Prix.
He had a total of five podium finishes throughout his career, and he also competed in the Indianapolis 500 in 1973 and 1975.Outside of his racing career, Wietzes was the co-founder of the Players Canadian Formula Atlantic Series in 1975.
He also served in the Canadian Army during the 1960s. He retired from professional racing in 1976, and passed away in 2005.Overall, Egbert “Eppie” Wietzes was a highly successful racing driver from Canada.
He competed in the Canadian Grand Prix and the Formula One championship, and had a total of five podium finishes. He also founded the Players Canadian Formula Atlantic Series and served in the Canadian Army.
Wietzes will always be remembered for his impressive racing career and contributions to the sport.
15. John Cannon
John Cannon was an accomplished sports car racer, born in London, U.K., but representing Canada.
Throughout his career, he raced in a variety of series, including the United States Road Racing Championship (USRRC), the Canadian-American Challenge Cup (CanAm) Series, and the L&M Continental Series.
In the USRRC, he raced for Nickey Chevrolet in a car sponsored by Dan Blocker, called the Genie/Vinegaroon. John’s racing career spanned over a decade and saw him competing in some of the most prestigious events in the world.
He would often travel to the United States to race against some of the world’s best drivers. His dedication and skill on the track earned him a great deal of respect from his peers and fans alike. In the USRRC, John Cannon was a consistent and competitive driver.
He was often seen in the top ten and frequently ran in the top five. His most notable success in this series was a second-place finish in the 1967 Riverside race.
John Cannon was also very successful in the CanAm series, where he drove for Nickey Chevrolet in a car sponsored by Dan Blocker. He competed in this series from 1965 to 1969 and achieved several podium finishes, including a third-place result at the Watkins Glen race in 1967.
John Cannon’s career was also marked by success in the L&M Continental Series, where he drove for Nickey Chevrolet in a car sponsored by Dan Blocker. He achieved several podium finishes in this series, as well as a first-place finish at the 1968 Riverside race.
John Cannon was an incredible racer who achieved a great deal of success throughout his career. He was able to compete in some of the most prestigious events in the world and was respected by his peers and fans alike.
His success in the USRRC, CanAm, and L&M Continental Series was a testament to his skill and dedication on the track.
16. John Cordts
John Cordts is an accomplished former racing driver who has experienced success in both Formula One and North American sports car racing. He had the opportunity to compete in the Formula One World Championship Grand Prix, which is a prestigious event in the world of motorsport.
On 20 September 1969, Cordts participated in the 1969 Canadian Grand Prix, a race that is still remembered to this day for its thrilling finish.Cordts was able to showcase his skill and prowess in the Grand Prix.
His participation in the race was a great achievement for him and his team, as only the best drivers are invited to take part in the event. Cordts had to battle against some of the best drivers in the world and he managed to keep up with them until the end of the race.
His performance was impressive and he was able to finish the race in an impressive position.In addition to participating in the Formula One World Championship Grand Prix, Cordts also had success in North American sports car racing.
He was able to secure several podium finishes in a variety of races. Cordts’ success in the sport earned him the respect of his fellow drivers and the admiration of fans.John Cordts’ legacy as a racing driver is one that will live on for many years to come.
His success in Formula One, as well as his ability to compete in North American sports car racing, are a testament to his skill and determination. As a result, he has become an inspiration to many aspiring racers.
17. Peter Broeker
Peter William Broeker was a racing driver from Canada who gained recognition when he participated in the 1963 United States Grand Prix. This was a World Championship Formula One Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious and difficult races in the world.
Broeker drove a Stebro, a car he had built himself, and finished seventh place out of the numerous cars that participated in the race. Despite being 22 laps behind the winner, he still managed to complete the race and earn no championship points.
This feat was impressive since Broeker had built his own car, and managed to compete with professional race car drivers and finish the race. His passion for racing and his dedication to building a vehicle that could compete in the race showed his great skill and determination.
His accomplishment was a testament to what one can do if they put their mind to it. Broeker’s performance in the race was extraordinary, and he was an inspiration to many aspiring racers.
18. Jacques Villeneuve
Jacques-Joseph Villeneuve is a Canadian racing driver with a unique family background. He is the younger brother of the late Gilles Villeneuve, who was a world-renowned Formula One racing driver in the 70s and 80s.
Jacques-Joseph is also the uncle of Jacques Villeneuve, who won the Formula One World Championship in 1997. To differentiate between the two Jacques, Jacques-Joseph is often referred to as “Uncle Jacques” and “Jacquo”.
He has been praised for his success in racing and his unique family background.
19. Earl Ross
Earl Ross was a professional race car driver from Canada who participated in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series from 1973 to 1976. He drove the Carling Red Cap #52.
The NASCAR Winston Cup Series is a professional stock car racing series that is sanctioned by the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR).
It is the oldest and most prestigious series of its kind and is considered the pinnacle of the sport.Ross was born in Ontario and started his racing career in the early 1970s.
He quickly gained recognition for his skill and ambition and was chosen to join the NASCAR Winston Cup Series in 1973. Ross participated in the series for four years, during which he drove the Carling Red Cap #52.
He achieved moderate success in the series, but was never able to win a race.Ross retired from professional racing in 1976 and went on to become a successful entrepreneur. He owned and operated several businesses, including a car dealership in Ontario.
Ross was also involved in the Canadian racing scene, becoming a mentor to many up-and-coming drivers. He is remembered fondly by the racing community for his dedication and passion for the sport.
20. Ross Surgenor
Ross Surgenor was a former NASCAR driver from Victoria, British Columbia. He was one of the few Canadian drivers to have participated in the Winston Cup, the premier racing series in the United States.
Surgenor was only able to compete in two Winston Cup races during the 1974 season, both of which were held at the Riverside International Raceway in California. The first race was the Winston Western 500 in May, followed by the Tuborg 400 in June.
Surgenor finished in 12th place in the Tuborg 400, his best finish in a Winston Cup race. This was quite an accomplishment for a Canadian driver, and it goes to show Surgenor’s talent and dedication to the sport.
21. Doug Didero
Doug Didero is a former driver in the Indy Racing League, having raced during the 1999–2000 seasons. He had a total of six career starts in the Indy Racing League, with his best finish coming at the Delphi Indy 200 at Walt Disney World Speedway, where he placed 14th.
Before his time in the Indy Racing League, Didero also raced three times in the NASCAR Busch Series from 1991–1992. During his racing career, Didero saw a lot of success and proved himself to be a competitive and skillful driver.
He made a name for himself in the Indy Racing League and NASCAR Busch Series, and will always be remembered by racing fans as a talented driver.
22. D. J. Kennington
Douglas James “D.J.” Kennington is a Canadian professional stock car racing driver with a long and successful career. He has been competing in the NASCAR Pinty’s Series since 2010 and currently drives the No. 17 Dodge Challenger for his own team, DJK Racing.
During his time in the Pinty’s Series, Kennington has achieved a great deal of success, having won the championship title in both 2010 and 2012.
Kennington has also enjoyed success in other series, including the NASCAR Xfinity Series, the NASCAR Gander Outdoors Truck Series, and the ARCA Menards Series.
His impressive list of accomplishments also includes victories in the Pirelli World Challenge and the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series. Kennington is an experienced and successful driver, and is sure to continue his success in the future.
23. Andrew Ranger
Andrew Ranger is a successful Canadian professional racing driver who competes full-time in the NASCAR Pinty’s Series. He drives the No. 27 for Paillé Course//Racing. Ranger is a veteran of the Pinty’s Series, with an impressive record of 28 wins in 133 races.
This shows just how talented and skilled he is, as he has managed to achieve these wins in such a short amount of time. His success in the Pinty’s Series has earned him the respect and admiration of the racing community.
Not only is he an experienced driver, he is also a mentor and role model for aspiring racers. His ability to stay focused on the track and his drive to win are just two of the many qualities that have made him a successful driver.
He is a great example of how dedication and hard work can pay off in the long run.
24. Cliff Hucul
Cliff Hucul is a former racing driver who competed in the USAC and CART Championship Car series between 1977 and 1981. During this time, Hucul had 24 starts in total, including three appearances at the Indianapolis 500.
He achieved 8 top-ten finishes, with his best result being 4th place at the 1979 edition of the Texas World Speedway.
Hucul had a successful career considering his brief time on the track, and his impressive performance at the 1979 Texas World Speedway is a testament to his skill and dedication as a racer.
25. Billy Foster
William Alva Foster was a Canadian racecar driver who made a name for himself in the world of motorsports. Born in Victoria, British Columbia, Foster was an enthusiastic and skilled driver who had a passion for speed.
Tragically, his career was cut short when he died in a crash during practice for a NASCAR Grand National stock car race at Riverside International Raceway in Riverside, California. Prior to this tragic accident, Foster had enjoyed a successful driving career.
He earned the distinction of becoming the first ever champion of the CAMRA Series in 1963. This inaugural year of the series was a memorable one for Foster, as his skill and determination led him to the championship title.
William Alva Foster’s career was short-lived, but his legacy lives on. He is remembered for his skill as a driver, and his enthusiasm for racing. Though he passed away before his time, his memory is cherished by those who knew him and those who followed his career.
26. Francis Affleck
Francis Archibald Affleck was an avid race car driver from Canada. He first began his racing hobby in the Montreal suburb of Greenfield Park and continued to pursue his passion when he moved to Charlotte in 1977.
He raced in the NASCAR late model circuit at local tracks, as well as in the ARCA series. His love of racing and his commitment to excellence made him a successful and respected driver in the sport.
He was well known for his skill and determination to win, as well as his willingness to help other aspiring drivers.
Francis Archibald Affleck was an inspirational and influential figure in the world of racing, and he will be remembered for his commitment to excellence and for his passion for the sport.
27. Gary Kershaw
Gary Kershaw was an accomplished NASCAR driver who hailed from Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Born in 1952, Kershaw grew up in a racing family. His father raced stock cars and his brother raced drag cars. Kershaw followed in their footsteps, and began racing in 1975.
He raced in several different series, and by the mid-1980s he had become a full-time NASCAR competitor. He competed in the Winston Cup Series, Busch Series, and Craftsman Truck Series, competing in a total of 300 races.
Kershaw gained notoriety for his hard-charging style, earning the nickname “Killer Kershaw” due to his aggressive racing tactics. He gained respect from other drivers for his ability to stay on the throttle and remain competitive.
Despite his aggressive style, he was able to keep his car together and finish races. He had his best season in 1989, when he finished 4th in the Winston Cup Series standings. Kershaw retired from NASCAR in 1998, after 23 years of racing.
He returned to his hometown of Victoria, and is still involved in racing as a car owner and mentor. He is also a member of the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame, an honor reserved for the most distinguished drivers in the country.
Gary Kershaw is a testament to the world-class talent that can be found in Canadian motorsport.
28. Don Thomson Jr.
Don Thomson Jr. is a highly experienced and respected Canadian racing driver. He started his career in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, driving the No. 4 Home Hardware Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS for Fitzpatrick Motorsports.
He was part of the team for over two decades, before making the decision to switch in 2011 to the No. 8 Dodge, becoming teammates with Jason Hathaway.
Thomson’s experience and technical skills make him an asset to any team, and his long tenure with Fitzpatrick Motorsports attests to his commitment to success and excellence.
He is a true professional, and his skills have been instrumental in the success of many teams throughout his career.
29. Stewart Friesen
Stewart J. Friesen is a highly accomplished racing driver from both Canada and the United States. He races professionally in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, driving a Toyota Tundra with the number 52.
Friesen drives the Toyota for his own team, Halmar Friesen Racing, which is based in New York and Ontario, Canada.
Halmar Friesen Racing was founded in 2013 and has since become a highly successful team, with Friesen winning multiple races in both the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and dirt track racing.
Friesen is an accomplished driver on both dirt and asphalt tracks, having won races in the World of Outlaws, Super DirtCar Series, and the NASCAR Pinty’s Series. He is also a four-time winner of the prestigious Five Mile Point Speedway championship in New York.
Friesen’s success in racing has made him a fan favorite in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, and he is one of the most decorated drivers in the series.
30. Paul Tracy
Paul Anthony Tracy is an accomplished and experienced auto racing driver. He is a dual citizen of Canada and the United States, and has raced in CART, the Champ Car World Series, and the IndyCar Series.
His peers and fans have given him the nicknames “PT” and “The Thrill from West Hill” due to his exciting and thrilling driving style. In addition to his career on the track, Tracy has also been a part of the broadcasting world.
From 2014 to 2021, he worked as a color commentator for NBC’s IndyCar coverage. His insight and expertise on the sport has been highly praised by viewers, adding to his already impressive racing career.
31. Peter Shepherd
Peter Shepherd III is a renowned professional stock car racing driver from Canada. He is currently a part of two active racing series. Shepherd competes in the NASCAR Pinty’s Series for the Dave Jacombs Racing team.
In the APC Series, Shepherd races in the #22 APC/Total Race Car. As a professional driver, Shepherd is known for his skill and dedication to the sport. He has become a respected figure in the racing world and has made a name for himself as a reliable and talented driver.
Shepherd is committed to competing at the highest level and is driven to succeed in every race he takes part in.
32. Ira Vail
Ira Vail was an incredibly influential figure in the world of motorsport.
Born in Montreal, Quebec, Canada in the early twentieth century, he was a Canadian-American racecar driver and auto racing promoter who made a name for himself in the industry.Vail’s career as a driver was mainly spent in the United States, where he drove in the American Automobile Association (AAA) National Championship series, as well as a variety of smaller races.
He was also known for his skill as a promoter, having organized many of the races in which he competed. He was an important figure in the development of the Indianapolis 500 race, and was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2003.
Vail was not only a successful driver and promoter, but he was also an innovator. He was one of the first drivers to use the Indy-style rear-engine car, and he developed a revolutionary new type of carburetor, which allowed for increased power and speed.
This technology was adopted by the sport and revolutionized the way cars were built and raced.Vail was also a philanthropist, donating generously to charities and causes.
His legacy in motorsport remains strong, and he is still remembered fondly by racecar fans across the world.
33. Dominique Van Wieringen
Dominique Van Wieringen is a professional stock car racing driver from Canada. She is an experienced driver and has been competing part-time in the ARCA Menards Series, the top racing series for stock car drivers in the United States. She drove the No.
30 Ford for Rette Jones Racing, an experienced and successful racing team. Van Wieringen has raced in multiple series throughout her career, including the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West, the NASCAR Pinty’s Series and the ARCA Menards Series East.
She is a talented driver and is always looking to improve her performance. She is an example of how determination and hard work can pay off in the world of stock car racing.
34. Peter Thomson
Peter John Thomson is an acclaimed Canadian rally race car driver and venture capitalist. He is the founder and head of the renowned rally racing team Thomson Motorsport, and is also a successful venture capitalist.
As a race car driver, Peter John Thomson has achieved great success in the rally racing world. He has won multiple Canadian Rally Championships, making him a household name in the industry.
He has also competed in numerous international events, including the World Rally Championship, and has placed in the top ten in numerous events.
His success on the track has earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the best rally drivers in Canada.In addition to his successful career in racing, Peter John Thomson is also a venture capitalist.
He has invested in numerous start-ups and established companies, helping them to achieve their goals. His investments have been instrumental in helping many businesses to reach their potential and expand into new markets.
He is highly sought after by entrepreneurs and investors alike, as his experience and knowledge are invaluable in helping them to make successful investments.Overall, Peter John Thomson is a highly accomplished individual.
His success in the world of rally racing and venture capitalism have earned him the respect of peers and admirers alike. His ability to excel in both fields has made him a sought-after individual in the business world.
He is a shining example of what can be achieved when you combine passion and hard work with a sound business acumen.
35. Mark Dilley
Mark Dilley is a Canadian race car driver who competes in the NASCAR Pinty’s Series. He currently drives the No. 64 Leland/BDI/PartSource Ford Fusion for Micks Motorsports.
Dilley has a long history in the racing world, and his career began in 1994 when he made his debut in the CASCAR Sportsman Series. Since then, he has established himself as one of the top drivers in the series, and he has won several championships and awards.
In addition to his racing career, Dilley has also been a part of the racing community for many years. In May 2017, he became co-owner of Sauble Speedway, a major racing track located in Canada.
This new venture has allowed Dilley to further his influence in the racing world, and his presence at the track has been a major draw for fans. With his dedication to the sport, Mark Dilley has established himself as a top driver and a prominent figure in the racing community.
36. Louis-Philippe Dumoulin
Louis-Philippe “L. P.” Dumoulin is a professional Canadian stock car racer who has enjoyed a great deal of success in the NASCAR Pinty’s Series. He is currently driving the No. 47 Dodge, owned by Marc-André Bergeron, in the series.
Dumoulin has had a remarkable career in the NASCAR Pinty’s Series, winning the championship three times in 2014, 2018, and 2021. His success in the series has cemented his place as one of the best Canadian stock car racers in the world.
He has become a household name amongst racing fans in Canada and abroad, and is an inspiration to aspiring racers everywhere.
37. Vic Parsons
Vic Parsons is a retired NASCAR driver from Willowdale, Ontario. He was active in the Winston Cup Series for 19 events, accumulating a total of seven top-ten finishes.
He is not related to the legendary NASCAR driver Benny Parsons, but his career achievements are still impressive.Parsons had a successful career in NASCAR, competing in nineteen Winston Cup Series events and earning seven top-ten finishes.
He was able to achieve these results despite facing stiff competition from many of the sport’s top drivers.
His skill and determination was evident in his results, making him a respected name in NASCAR circles.Despite not being related to Benny Parsons, the legendary driver of the Winston Cup Series, Vic Parsons was still able to make a name for himself in the world of NASCAR.
His seven top-ten finishes in nineteen events is a testament to his skill and hard work. Even though he has since retired, Vic Parsons has left a lasting impression on the sport and will be remembered for his contributions.
38. Alex Labbé
Alex Labbé is a Canadian professional stock car racer who competes part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. He races for DGM Racing, a team that fields multiple cars in the series, and he drives the Nos. 36, 91 and 92 Chevrolet Camaros for them.
In addition to these cars, Labbé also races the Nos. 28 and 29 cars for DGM Racing. Labbé has been a successful driver in the Xfinity Series, with multiple top 10 finishes throughout his career.
He has also had success in other series such as the NASCAR Pinty’s Series, where he has won two championships in 2016 and 2017. He’s also competed in the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series, where he has won multiple races.
Labbé is a well-respected driver in the NASCAR community and is a popular figure among fans. He has a strong passion for racing and has worked hard to reach the level of success he has achieved.
He is a great example of a driver who has worked hard to reach the highest levels of racing and has been rewarded for his dedication and hard work.
39. Donald Theetge
Donald Theetge is a Canadian driver who competes in two different professional stock car racing series. He races part-time in the ARCA Menards Series, representing Visconti Motorsports in the No. 74 Toyota Camry.
Additionally, Theetge is a driver in the NASCAR Pinty’s Series, where he pilots his own No. 80 Chevrolet Camaro. Theetge has been a successful competitor in both series, having earned numerous wins and top-five finishes in his career.
During his time in the ARCA Menards Series, Theetge has won several races and has consistently placed within the top-five.
Similarly, Theetge has enjoyed success in the NASCAR Pinty’s Series, claiming multiple victories and numerous top-ten finishes.Theetge’s experience in both the ARCA Menards Series and the NASCAR Pinty’s Series has made him one of the most successful and well-known professional stock car racers in Canada.
His impressive skills on the track have earned him respect amongst the racing community, and his commitment to the sport has set an example for aspiring drivers.
40. Trevor Boys
Trevor Boys was a Canadian race car driver who competed in the Winston Cup races from 1982 to 1993. During this time, he had two top-ten finishes to his name. After over a decade away from the track, he returned to racing in 2003 to compete in the Craftsman Truck Series.
His best finish in that series was 22nd place at Memphis Motorsports Park. Throughout his career, Trevor Boys showed remarkable skill and determination, pushing himself to the limits and doing his best to make the most of every race he competed in.
He was a true racing enthusiast who put his all into the sport and will be remembered for his commitment and passion for racing.
41. Scott Steckly
Scott Steckly is a highly accomplished professional stock car racer and team owner. He has been competing in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series for nine years, and during this time he has driven his own No. 22 Dodge Charger for 22 Racing, his own team.
Steckly has achieved considerable success in the Canadian Tire Series, winning the championship four times in 2008, 2011, 2013, and 2015. His achievements in the Canadian Tire Series have earned him recognition as one of the top drivers in the country.
Steckly’s impressive record has made him a fan favorite, and he is well respected within the racing community. In addition to his success on the track, Steckly also owns and manages a successful race team, which he has used to help develop and promote younger drivers.
His dedication and commitment to the sport have made him a respected and admired figure in the racing world.
42. Don Biederman
Don Biederman was an iconic Canadian stock car racer from Port Credit, Ontario. He began his racing career in the late 1950s and quickly made a name for himself on the Canadian stock car racing circuit.
Biederman was known for his skill and tenacity behind the wheel, as he was always a fierce competitor and never gave up until he reached the checkered flag.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Biederman raced in some of the biggest stock car races in Canada, including the Toronto Molson Grand Prix and the Canadian National Stock Car Championship.
He was a two-time winner of the Canadian National Stock Car Championship, and earned the nickname “The Flying Dutchman” for his incredible speed and agility. Biederman’s legacy in Canadian stock car racing is one of legendary proportions.
He was a true pioneer of the sport, paving the way for future generations of racers to come. His commitment to the sport and dedication to excellence will never be forgotten, and he will always be remembered as one of the all-time greats of Canadian stock car racing.
43. Laurent Rioux
Laurent Rioux was a Canadian racing driver from Montreal, Quebec, who had a brief but successful career in NASCAR. He made his debut in 1983, taking part in three NASCAR Winston Cup Series races.
His best result of the season came in the 1983 Goody’s 500 at Martinsville Speedway, where he finished 17th overall in the points race. Rioux continued to race in the series in 1984, but his performances were not as impressive as his debut year.
After leaving the sport, Rioux focused on a career in business and is now a successful entrepreneur.
Conclusion
Canada has some of the best auto racing players in the world. From professional racers like Jacques Villeneuve to upcoming stars like Parker Thompson, the Canadian racing scene is full of talent.
With the right training and support, these drivers have the potential to make a major impact on the international racing scene. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, Canadian drivers will continue to be at the forefront of the racing world.
