Trans Am Hall of Fame: Willy T. Ribbs

February 11, 2025

One of the most versatile and groundbreaking drivers of his era, Willy T. Ribbs started his career in Trans Am with a bang, winning five races and finishing second in the point standings while driving a DeAtley Chevrolet Camaro. In 1984, he joined fellow Hall of Famer Jack Roush’s super team, Roush Protofab, piloting his Mercury Capri to four wins. His best season came in 1985, when he won seven points-paying races and earned one win in the Pacesetter Challenge at Sonoma Raceway, but fell just short of the title. Ribbs raced part time in the series until 1992, then returned for a final season in the series in 2000. In total, he tallied 17 points-paying victories over the course of his career. Outside of Trans Am, Ribbs is known for being the first African American to test a Formula 1 car and to compete in the Indianapolis 500.

Photo Credit: Dan R. Boyd