In an emotional moment that resonated deeply with fans and the motorsport community, IndyCar driver David Malukas shared a heartfelt tribute to his late grandmother on Instagram, captioning his post with the poignant words “I will love you forever.” The 24-year-old driver, known for his resilience on the track and his Lithuanian heritage, opened up about the profound loss in a post dated early October 2025, revealing the personal grief behind his high-speed career.
Malukas, who races for A.J. Foyt Racing and has been making waves in the NTT IndyCar Series since his debut, posted a touching message accompanied by what appeared to be cherished photos or memories of his grandmother. In the caption, he wrote: “Rest in peace, močiuté. Thank you for teaching me to dance through the hard times in life. I’ll love you forever.
Give grandpa a hug for me.” The use of “močiuté,” the Lithuanian term for grandmother, highlighted his cultural roots—Malukas is a first-generation American with Lithuanian ancestry, a background that has often influenced his identity both personally and professionally.
The tribute came at a time when Malukas was navigating the demands of a competitive IndyCar season. Having transitioned teams and roles in recent years, including stints that showcased his raw talent and determination, the driver has frequently spoken about the importance of family support in enduring the pressures of professional racing. His grandmother’s influence, as described in the post, extended far beyond emotional comfort; she taught him valuable life lessons about perseverance and finding joy amid adversity.
The phrase “dance through the hard times” evoked a sense of grace and optimism, qualities that Malukas has carried into his racing approach, where he has shown poise in challenging situations on ovals and road courses alike.
Fans quickly flooded the comments section with condolences, sharing stories of their own losses and praising Malukas for his vulnerability. Many noted how rare it is for athletes in high-adrenaline sports to publicly express such raw emotion, especially in an era where social media often amplifies triumphs more than sorrows. One commenter wrote, “Your grandma must be so proud watching you from above—keep dancing on that track for her.” Others highlighted the universal theme of intergenerational love, with messages pouring in from across the globe, including from Lithuania, where Malukas maintains strong ties.
Malukas’ background adds layers to the tribute’s significance. Born in the United States to Lithuanian immigrant parents, he has often credited his family’s work ethic and cultural values for shaping his drive to succeed in a sport that demands both physical and mental fortitude. His grandmother, referred to affectionately in the post, played a pivotal role in his upbringing. She instilled lessons in resilience—perhaps drawn from her own experiences—and encouraged him to approach life’s obstacles with a positive spirit.
The mention of asking her to “give grandpa a hug” suggested a family that had already endured previous losses, with his grandfather presumably having passed earlier, making this goodbye even more layered with accumulated grief.
In the IndyCar world, where drivers often form tight-knit bonds with teams and fans, Malukas’ openness struck a chord. Teammates and rivals alike expressed support publicly and privately, a reminder that beneath the helmets and fire-resistant suits are individuals dealing with life’s most profound challenges. The sport has seen similar moments in the past—drivers honoring family members during difficult times—but Malukas’ post stood out for its simplicity and sincerity. There were no dramatic flourishes, just a grandson mourning the woman who helped mold him into the person he is today.
The timing of the tribute also coincided with a period of transition for Malukas. After impressive performances that included strong showings at iconic events like the Indianapolis 500, he has been building toward greater consistency in the series. Off the track, moments like this humanize athletes who are often seen only through the lens of speed and competition. By sharing his grief, Malukas reminded everyone that even those who push machines to their limits at over 230 miles per hour carry the same vulnerabilities as anyone else.
As the IndyCar season progressed beyond that October post, Malukas continued to race with the same intensity, perhaps channeling the lessons his grandmother taught him. The idea of “dancing through hard times” could serve as a metaphor for his career—navigating crashes, team changes, and the relentless pursuit of podiums with a sense of rhythm and grace. Fans have speculated that future races might feature subtle tributes, such as helmet designs or in-car messages, to honor her memory.
This personal loss underscores the role family plays in an athlete’s journey. For Malukas, his grandmother was more than a supporter; she was a teacher, a source of unconditional love, and a guiding light through challenges. Her passing leaves a void, but her influence endures in the way he lives and races. The words “I will love you forever” are not just a farewell—they are a promise to carry her spirit forward, lap after lap, season after season.
In an industry that celebrates victories and milestones, Malukas’ Instagram tribute offered a quiet, powerful reminder of what truly matters. It connected with people far beyond racing enthusiasts, touching on the universal experience of saying goodbye to a loved one who shaped your world. As he continues his career, now with a move to Team Penske announced for 2026, that enduring love will likely remain a quiet force propelling him onward.
