By becoming the first woman in the history of IndyCar Series to win a race, Danica Patrick is sure to revisit the cover of Sports Illustrated, only this time as a champion driver and not a swimsuit model. The stunning 26-year-old has been voted the most popular driver for three years running and now she has proved that she can hold her own against the men.
She won in Japan in her 50th race less than two weeks ago and Danica was understandably relieved to get the monkey off her back.
Talking to XPRESS from Kansas City, where a mechanical problem forced her out of the race on Sunday, Danica said: "I have always felt that my peers and the people that follow racing knew I was capable of being a winning driver.
"Now it is the rest of the world that knows, so it is more of a relief not to be asked the question when will I win."
She has also gone a long way towards sweeping away the denigrating attitude she has faced as a woman in a so-called man's sport. But Danica couldn't care less. "I really don't pay much attention to the sexist remarks," she said.
An icon for women, Danica believes she can pave the way for women in the Middle East to take up the sport. "I would hope so, I believe I have shown that women can be as good drivers as men. I think they should at least have the opportunity," she said.
Dubai impressions
Danica has never been to Dubai, but has heard a lot of good things about the place. "I have never been asked to drive there. I have no idea if we plan on going there to race. I have heard it is a very new and very beautiful city, and the people are very welcoming."
So, where does she hope to go from here, a career in NASCAR or Formula One maybe?
"As of now I am happy with IndyCar. I guess we will see what the future brings. I have always said never say never. I always leave my options open," she said.
Knowing Danica
Until her win in Japan, Danica was compared to Anna Kournikova for her willingness to be marketed for her looks
Prior to getting into motor racing, she was a cheerleader at Hononegah High School near Beloit in 1996
She is married to Paul Edward Hospenthal, who had previously been her physical therapist
She was named the Rookie of the Year for both the 2005 Indianapolis 500 and the 2005 IndyCar Series season
In May 2006, she published her autobiography, Danica: Crossing the Line
She appeared in the February 15, 2008 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue
