Dixon credits team with 5th IndyCar title: "It's all about the people"

Scott Dixon is now one of American motorsport's all-time greats, having sealed a fifth IndyCar Series title today at Sonoma Raceway. 

As previously reported, the Kiwi now finds himself at the absolute pinnacle of the American open-wheel racing record books. His five titles rank him third in the overall rankings; one title behind Rick Mears, two titles behind A.J. Foyt, and now a title ahead of Mario Andretti, Al Unser, and Bobby Rahal.

But when asked about whether he knew he would one day rub shoulder to shoulder with some of the best, Dixon shrugged it off.

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"No ... It's all about the people," he said post race.

"I'm the lucky one that gets to take it across the line, but I can't thank Emma enough — my wife. She's just been so amazing this whole season. It's actually the anniversary of her father's passing today, so it's obviously an emotional time for her and her family.

"I can't thank enough everybody ... the team, my teammate, everybody involved. This doesn't come without a lot of hard work and we had a lot of grit.

“I’ve got to thank the other teams that we fought hard with; Team Penske and Andretti throughout the season.

“Rossi did a hell of a job and has been pushing so hard this year, is a huge taken and one that is going to win many championships throughout his career.

“For Chip, for everyone, this is mega!”

It's the first time that a driver has earned more than four titles in over 50 years — Dixon taking 15 years to amass his five championships (2003, 2008, 2013, 2015, and 2018). 

Dixon has spent that whole time racing for Chip Ganassi Racing, and that will continue into next season following speculation that the Kiwi was linked to McLaren's potential series berth.

"I remember him at Denver, his first race with us I think. It was just incredible. I think we told him he had to finish second or something," said team owner Chip Ganassi. 

"What an incredible ride it's been with this guy. My hat's off to the team. [...] To bring them a championship is one of the all-time pleasures of my life."