Parnelli Jones' statement on Dario Franchitti's retirement

"Dario was a hell of a driver and will be missed; missed by everyone in racing around the world.  He was my kind of guy ... he wasn't afraid to put his foot down and go.  It is really hard to believe that he had to give up racing, I know he would have won more races, and maybe Indy a couple more times, had he been able to continue driving.

"He had very diverse skills and was fun to watch race on both road courses and ovals. He was always very smooth and precise.  We've become very good friends over the last three or four years, and I always enjoy my time with him. And, oh yeah, thank you, Dario, for helping me get my Baby Borg last January! I'll always appreciate your help with that!

"He's a colorful individual with passion for the sport and I am glad I got to watch him race. I had the pleasure of knowing Jim Clark personally, and I know he'd be proud of what Dario did for the sport, on and off the track."