Forrest Lucas, who built Lucas Oil into a global brand and became one of NHRA Drag Racing’s most influential supporters, died Aug. 23. He was 83.
Born in 1942 in rural Indiana, Lucas worked as a long-haul truck driver before founding Lucas Oil Products in 1989 with his wife, Charlotte. The company grew into a worldwide leader in automotive oils and additives used in trucking, motorsports, and consumer markets.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our founder, Forrest Lucas,” the company said in a statement. “Forrest’s boundless drive for Lucas Oil, his generosity and love for his family, friends, and community defined his life. While we grieve this tremendous loss, we take comfort in knowing his legacy will continue to inspire our team and all who knew him.”
Lucas became one of drag racing’s most prominent benefactors through sponsorships that reshaped the sport. For more than 20 years, Lucas Oil served as title sponsor of the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, backing thousands of grassroots racers. The company also sponsored the Winternationals in Pomona, Calif., the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals in Brainerd, Minn., and secured naming rights to Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, home of the NHRA U.S. Nationals.
He directly supported championship teams and drivers, beginning with Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Hector Arana Sr. and later his son, Hector Jr. He also sponsored John Force, Top Alcohol Funny Car champion Frank Manzo, and drag racing legend Chris Karamesines, whom Lucas supported with a lifetime sponsorship late in his career.
In August 2024, Lucas received the NHRA Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the sport. “Forrest Lucas was more than a businessman; he was a visionary who believed in motorsports from the grassroots up,” NHRA President Glen Cromwell said. “The NHRA and countless racers are better because of his passion and generosity.”
Lucas gradually transitioned leadership of the company to his son, former NHRA Top Fuel and Top Alcohol Dragster driver Morgan Lucas, who now serves as president of Lucas Oil Products. The company has expanded its reach while maintaining a focus on grassroots racing.
Beyond racing, Lucas was recognized for philanthropy and community involvement through Lucas Oil and the Lucas Oil Estate in Missouri. His influence on drag racing and motorsports sponsorship remains a cornerstone of his legacy.
