Paul Russo

Paul Russo (April 10, 1914 - February 13, 1976): Born in Kenosha, Wisconsin, this versatile American racing driver became one of the most respected and enduring figures in American open-wheel racing, competing at the highest levels across multiple decades and disciplines. Russo was an integral member of the legendary "Chicago Gang" of midget racing, alongside such luminaries as Emil Andres, Tony Bettenhausen, Duke Nalon, Cowboy O'Rourke, Jimmy Snyder, and Wally Zale - a group that dominated midget car racing in the late 1930s and 1940s. He captured the AAA Eastern Midget championship in 1938, establishing his credentials in the smaller cars before progressing to championship competition. By 1940, Russo had achieved his ultimate goal - racing at the Indianapolis 500.

He would go on to compete in 13 Indianapolis 500 races spanning from 1940 through 1962 (excluding 1951 and 1952), demonstrating remarkable longevity in one of motorsport's most demanding events. His best finish came in 1957 when he drove the Novi Special to fourth place. In 1955, he co-drove to a second-place finish with Tony Bettenhausen. Over his career in AAA and USAC Championship Car series, Russo made 81 starts from the 1940-1941 and 1946-1954, 1956-1959, and 1962 seasons.

He achieved two championship race victories - at Springfield in 1950 and Detroit in 1951 - and finished in the top ten an impressive 49 times, reflecting his consistent competitiveness. His participation in Indianapolis 500 races during the 1950s made him an official Formula One competitor during the era when the race counted toward the World Championship. Russo's racing prowess extended beyond championship cars - he was a formidable midget car racer throughout his career, though records of his Turkey Night Grand Prix participation remain incomplete. His dedication to the sport earned him induction into the National Midget Auto Racing Hall of Fame in 1992.

Russo passed away in Daytona Beach, Florida, on February 13, 1976, leaving behind a legacy as one of American racing's most accomplished and versatile competitors.