Eddie Sachs

Edward Julius 'Eddie' Sachs (28 May 1927 - 30 May 1964): American racing driver from Allentown, Pennsylvania, known as the 'Clown Prince of Racing' for his outgoing personality and showmanship, who tragically died in a fiery crash at the 1964 Indianapolis 500. Competed in Formula One at the Indianapolis 500 from 1957 to 1963, participating in 7 World Championship races with a best finish of second place at both the 1961 and 1963 Indianapolis 500s, narrowly missing victory on both occasions. At the 1961 Indy 500, Sachs led with three laps remaining but made a late pit stop for fuel, finishing 8.4 seconds behind winner A.

J. Foyt in one of the closest finishes in Indianapolis history. At the 1963 Indy 500, finished just 34 seconds behind winner Parnelli Jones after a controversial race where Jones' car leaked oil but officials declined to black-flag him, allowing him to maintain his lead. Sachs was devastated by the decision, believing he was denied a deserved victory. Won the USAC Championship pole position at Indianapolis in 1960 and 1961, demonstrating his qualifying speed and establishing himself as one of the 500's fastest drivers.

Popular with fans for his engaging personality, promotional activities, and willingness to interact with spectators, earning him the nickname 'Clown Prince.' Tragically, Sachs died on 30 May 1964, just two days after his 37th birthday, on the second lap of the 1964 Indianapolis 500 in one of the race's most horrific accidents. His Halibrand-Ford was struck by rookie Dave MacDonald's crashed car at the start-finish line, and both vehicles exploded in massive fireballs. Both Sachs and MacDonald died in the inferno, along with injuries to several spectators from flying debris.

The tragedy led to significant safety improvements at Indianapolis, including the implementation of safer fuel cells and improved fire suppression systems. Sachs' death shocked the racing community, robbing the sport of one of its most charismatic figures and highlighting the extreme dangers of 1960s motorsport. His two runner-up finishes remain among the most heartbreaking near-misses in Indianapolis history, and his legacy as both a talented driver and beloved personality endures in American racing history.