WELLINGTON, New Zealand — In a landmark recognition of sporting excellence, six-time IndyCar champion Scott Dixon has been formally knighted in New Zealand’s prestigious New Year Honors list. The celebrated driver, now officially known as Sir Scott Ronald Glyndwr Dixon, was bestowed the title of Knight Commander of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his extraordinary services to motor sport and charitable endeavors.
Expressing profound surprise at the honor, Dixon remarked, ‘I’ve been called a lot of things, but I never thought that ‘Sir’ was going to be one of them. The news was totally out of the blue. It triggers a rapid reflection on my entire journey, from the first time driving a go-kart to all the subsequent memories that happened at warp speed.’
Born in Australia to New Zealand-born parents who later returned to Auckland, Dixon’s racing career began with karting titles in both Australia and New Zealand before he advanced to compete in Indy Lights and CART series in the United States. Since joining IndyCar in 2003, he has compiled one of the most impressive records in motorsport history, competing for 23 consecutive seasons with Chip Ganassi Racing. His career statistics include 58 wins, 142 podium finishes from 380 starts, 32 pole positions, and championship titles spanning 2003 to 2020, including his iconic 2008 Indianapolis 500 victory.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon praised Dixon as ‘a hero to young New Zealand motor sport fans’ while highlighting his ‘invaluable work fundraising for children’s charities.’ This aspect of Dixon’s legacy was particularly emphasized by the driver himself, who noted that recognition ‘is all about outside racing, giving back to the community and the partnerships you make away from the track.’
The knighthood arrives alongside another significant honor—Dixon’s induction into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2024, cementing his status as one of motorsport’s most decorated international competitors.