A.J. Foyt, a Texan, ranks as the best American driver ever, across all forms of racing. He is the only driver to have won the Daytona 500, the Indianapolis 500, the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Foyt won under 10 numbers in NASCAR and USAC open-wheel competition but is most associated with No. 14, winning 30 open-wheel races with it. Foyt is glad that numbers stay in circulation with NASCAR.
“I don’t think you should retire them,’’ Foyt said. “If somebody great wants to run with a number, it’s a big honor on your behalf for them to run that number.’’
That is why Foyt gladly gave his blessing when Tony Stewart asked for permission to switch to the No. 14 with the debut of his Stewart-Haas Racing team in 2009. Stewart is the Foyt of this generation, a hard-boiled racer comfortable with anything that has an engine.
“I was awful glad Tony wanted that number,” Foyt said. “I didn’t think anybody would ever run with it.”
Stewart's win at Pocono on 6/7/2009 was the first time the #14 had visited victory lane in the Sprint Cup Series since a race in Montogomery, AL on December 8, 1968.
Which Alabama Gang member won the 1968 race at Montgomery driving #14?
1. Hut Stricklin (N 32 34.422 W 086 04.431)
2. Ricky Bobby (N 33 33.887 W 087 02.219)
3. Bobby Allison (N 33 34.788 W 086 03.689)