The 1966 USAC National Championship season consisted of 16 races, running from March 20 at Phoenix International Raceway to November 20 at the same venue. It was a highly competitive year that mixed paved ovals, dirt tracks, road courses, and the crown jewel Indianapolis 500. Mario Andretti dominated the points battle in his Dean Van Lines Brawner Hawk-Ford, securing his second consecutive national title with consistent high finishes and multiple victories.
Andretti started the season strongly and went on a remarkable mid-season tear. He won at Langhorne, Atlanta (leading all laps), the Hoosier Grand Prix road race at Indianapolis Raceway Park, Milwaukee (twice), Trenton, and Phoenix. His versatility shone through, as he excelled on both pavement and dirt — including a dramatic last-lap pass of A.J. Foyt to win the Hoosier Hundred at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. He finished the year with eight wins and 3,070 points beating Jim McElreath, Gordon Johncock, Joe Leonard, and Al Unser.
Notable moments included Graham Hill’s victory in the Indianapolis 500 (where Andretti finished 18th after mechanical issues), the retirement of two-time 500 winner Rodger Ward after early-season races, and the tragic death of driver Chuck Rodee during Indy qualifying. The season highlighted the continued transition toward rear-engined cars on paved tracks while dirt racing remained a key part of the championship.
Andretti’s championship performance underscored his emergence as one of America’s top open-wheel talents, setting the stage for his long and legendary career.
July 24, 1966
