Wendell Scott Sr. tapped for Automotive Hall of Fame

Scott used his innate mechanical abilities and natural racing talent to become the first Black driver to win a race in the Grand National Series — NASCAR’s highest level of competition — at age 46.

He piloted his 1962 Chevrolet to first place at the Jacksonville 200, but the race continued for two more laps, possibly to give a white driver behind him a chance to catch up and take the lead. He completed 202 laps, but second-place finisher Buck Baker was announced as the winner. A few hours later, officials notified Scott of a scoring error, but said the trophy had been misplaced.

“Once again, this year’s class of inductees highlights the breadth of contributions individuals have had on this industry and all that it influences,” Sarah Cook, president of the Automotive Hall of Fame, said in a statement. “This diverse group of trailblazing innovators and leaders have played a critical role in shaping our industry, and we couldn’t be more pleased to recognize their achievements and welcome them into the Hall of Fame.”

It’s often considered one of the highest honors in the auto industry, a news release reported.

“His legacy of perseverance, innovative mechanical skills and pioneering spirit serves as an inspiration to future generations and underscores his significant role in shaping the narrative of inclusion and progress within the automotive world,” the release stated in announcing Scott’s induction.

Twenty-five years after his death, NASCAR inducted Scott into its Hall of Fame in 2015. In 2021, Scott’s family received a trophy commemorating the historic race victory at Speedway Park in Jacksonville, Florida, on Dec. 1, 1963.

Scott’s name was given to a stretch of U.S. 29, running from the southeastern corner of Danville to a northwestern point at the edge of the city limits in 2018.

The Wendell Scott Foundation was formed in 2010 to further Scott’s legacy and now also helps youth in underserved communities find mentors and STEM-based educational opportunities.

The Automotive Hall of Fame is a nonprofit organization that looks to honor the auto industry’s leaders and innovators. It was founded in 1939 and has inducted 755 awardees around the globe.

Other inductees include Bill Ford, Dr. Betsy Ancker-Johnson, Vic Edelbrock Sr. and Vic Edelbrock Jr., John James Sr. and Vivek Sehgal.

The induction ceremony is planned for Sept. 19 in Detroit, Michigan.