Indianapolis 500 Veteran Rick Treadway Dies at 56

Rick Treadway, an Indiana native and veteran of the 2002 Indianapolis 500, passed away on May 30, 2026, following a motorcycle accident. He was 56.

Racing Career Highlights

The son of 1997 Indianapolis 500-winning team owner Fred Treadway, Rick Treadway’s racing career included 11 starts in the INDYCAR SERIES during the 2001 and 2002 seasons.

• Indianapolis 500: Treadway started 17th and finished 29th in the 2002 Indianapolis 500, driving the No. 5 G Force/Chevrolet for his father’s team, Treadway Racing.
• Best Finish: His career-best INDYCAR SERIES finish was fifth place at the 2001 season finale held at Texas Motor Speedway.
• Early Competition: Before his move to the INDYCAR SERIES, Treadway competed in Formula 2000 junior formula racing, the USAC Silver Crown and National Midget Series, and SCCA competition.

Life Beyond the Track

A graduate of Indiana State University, Treadway’s professional life extended well beyond motorsports. He utilized his skills as a commercial pilot to operate a charter air service and also served as a Federal Aviation Administration-certified flight instructor.