IndyCar Team MOURNS Tragic Loss: Heart-Wrenching Update on the Sudden Passing of Beloved Member – “Rest Easy, Ed”
The IndyCar world is in mourning today following the sudden and tragic passing of Ed Townsend, a longtime crew member and transport driver for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing (RLL Racing). Townsend, affectionately known as “Big Ed” in the paddock, passed away unexpectedly late Sunday evening, sending a wave of heartbreak through the tight-knit racing community.
While the cause of death has not yet been officially disclosed, team officials confirmed that Ed died peacefully in his sleep while on location for the Iowa Speedway doubleheader.
In an emotional social media post Monday morning, RLL Racing paid tribute to their beloved colleague and friend:
> “It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our brother, Ed Townsend. His presence was larger than life, and his dedication, humor, and kindness were the heartbeat of our traveling team. Rest easy, Ed. The paddock won’t be the same without you.”
Drivers Graham Rahal and Christian Lundgaard both expressed their grief online, with Rahal writing, “Ed wasn’t just part of the crew — he was family. He kept us grounded, made us laugh, and always showed up with a smile. This one hurts.”
IndyCar teams, drivers, and fans across the motorsports world have also joined in paying tribute, sharing photos and memories of Ed’s long career behind the scenes, where he played a crucial — if often unheralded — role in the day-to-day operations of one of IndyCar’s top-tier teams.
A moment of silence is expected before this weekend’s race, and team haulers at several garages have already added tribute decals bearing the initials “ET” and the phrase “Never Forgotten.”
Ed Townsend was 57 years old.
Rest easy, Ed. Your IndyCar family will carry your legacy down every straight and through every turn.
