Art Bisch

Arthur James Bisch (10 November 1926 - 6 July 1958) was an American racecar driver whose brief but notable career was marked by both achievement and tragedy. Before venturing into racing in the early 1950s, Bisch served as a bomber pilot in World War II, experience that would serve him well in the high-stakes world of motorsport. He dominated regional racing in the southwestern United States, capturing the Arizona Modified Racing Association (AMRA) championship three times in 1950, 1951, and 1953. His success continued when he moved to California, where he comfortably won the 1956 California Racing Association (CRA) championship.

After competing in the USAC championship during 1957, Bisch earned his opportunity at the Indianapolis 500, qualifying 28th on his first attempt for the 1958 race. However, his Indy debut turned tragic when he was caught in a massive 15-car pileup at turn 3 on the opening lap, an incident that claimed the life of Pat O'Connor. Bisch survived the Indianapolis crash, but his life was cut short just two months later. On 6 July 1958, only eight weeks after his Indianapolis 500 appearance, Bisch suffered fatal head and chest injuries when his Champ Car struck the guardrail and rolled over twice at Lakewood Speedway in Atlanta.

He died from his injuries two days after the accident, ending a promising career at just 31 years old. His participation in the 1958 Indianapolis 500, which was part of the Formula One World Championship from 1950-1960, gives him one official F1 World Championship start in the record books.