Adam Carolla Show Legendary Racecar Driver Bobby Rahal on Dangerous 1980s Races & Hanging with Steve Jobs
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May 7, 2026 Bobby Rahal, legendary 1986 Indy 500 winner and team owner, shares colorful racing stories and memories. He talks dangerous 1980s IndyCar speeds, vintage racing thrills at Goodwood, and endurance stints at Le Mans and Daytona. He also recalls the Apple-sponsored Porsche, Steve Jobs at Sebring, and how celebrity partnerships shaped modern motorsport.
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How Winning The 1986 Indy 500 Defined Bobby Rahal
- Bobby Rahal says winning the 1986 Indy 500 changed his life more than his three CART championships did.
- He notes people always introduce him as the 1986 Indy 500 winner despite three championships and many other wins, showing Indy’s outsized career impact.
Ground Effect Raised Speeds Faster Than Safety
- Rahal explains 1980s IndyCars gained massive downforce from ground effect while structural safety lagged, raising lethal risk as lap speeds jumped from ~201 to ~217+ mph.
- He contrasts aluminum monocoque chassis and concrete walls of his era with much safer modern cars and barriers.
Red Mist At Goodwood Made Vintage Racing Intense
- Rahal recounts racing at Goodwood Revival in wet conditions driving a cramped Brabham F1 car he couldn't fit in originally, qualifying second and racing hard in pouring rain.
- He says the 'red mist' hits once you start and Goodwood drivers go full race even in vintage multimillion-dollar cars.