Danica Patrick offered a moving tribute to her sister, Brooke Selman, on Monday evening, acknowledging that her rise to fame in the world of professional racing would not have been possible without Brooke’s unwavering support and early inspiration. In a candid exchange that unfolded after the sisters spent time together on a racetrack, Danica Patrick made it clear just how much Brooke has shaped her journey, sharing her appreciation in a heartfelt message that resonated with fans and the racing community alike.
For years, Danica Patrick has been recognized as a barrier-breaking figure in motorsports, having raced professionally in both IndyCar and NASCAR. Since her retirement from professional racing in 2018, she has continued to stay involved in the sport through broadcasting and public appearances, but the bond with her family has remained a central part of her life. What is less known to many, however, is that Danica Patrick’s passion for racing was deeply influenced by her sister, Brooke Selman, who also competed in races when they were younger.
The recent time spent together behind the wheel prompted reflection and candid words between the sisters. According to Brooke Selman’s Instagram post, a particularly intense driving experience reminded her of Danica Patrick’s remarkable skills. Brooke recalled,
“I felt like the car was going to fall apart or the wheels would just explode on every corner. I kept saying afterwards ‘I could of never done what you do.’ You just grinned and said ‘I know.’ Will always be one of the most intense, crazy experiences of my life.”
Danica Patrick responded to her sister’s emotional note with her own touching admission:
“But if it wasn’t for you wanting to race… No one would know my name.”
This comment, simple yet powerful, underlines not only the familial bond but also the gratitude Danica Patrick holds for the pivotal influence her sister provided in the earliest days of their racing adventures together.
Now, after stepping away from the driver’s seat, Danica Patrick remains an active presence both in and around the sport, including recent work covering events like the Miami Grand Prix for Sky Sports. The increased time with her family, including Brooke Selman, has brought renewed attention to the roots of her success and the significance of shared experiences, even as new memories are made on and off the track.
This public tribute not only affirms the important role Brooke Selman played in shaping Danica Patrick’s path, but also serves as a reminder of the unseen support networks behind many well-known figures. The acknowledgment has sparked reflection among fans and observers, highlighting how family, encouragement, and shared ambition can influence a career. As Danica Patrick continues to evolve beyond her racing career, her bond with her sister stands as a testament to gratitude and the profound impact of those who inspire from the start.
