TENSION: Scott Dixon finally speaks out on live television: Calling Trump a “wicked old man sucking the soul out of America” after the Born-in-America Act was enacted.
In a moment that has sent shockwaves through the motorsports world and beyond, six-time IndyCar champion Scott Dixon, known for his calm demeanor on the track and off, unleashed a stunning verbal assault during a live television interview. The New Zealand-born driver, who has long kept his personal opinions out of the spotlight, did not hold back when the conversation turned to the controversial Born-in-America Act, a piece of legislation that has ignited fierce debate across the United States.
The interview, broadcast on a major sports network just days after the act’s enactment, began innocently enough. Dixon was there to discuss the upcoming Indy 500 preparations and his team’s strategy for the 2026 season. However, when the host shifted to current events and asked about the political climate’s impact on international athletes competing in American series like IndyCar, Dixon’s expression hardened. “I’ve stayed quiet for years because racing is about performance, not politics,” he said, pausing for effect. “But this Born-in-America Act crosses a line. It’s not about protecting America; it’s about fear and division.
And the man pushing this agenda? He’s a wicked old man sucking the soul out of America.”
The studio fell silent. The host, visibly caught off guard, stammered a follow-up question, but Dixon pressed on. “Look, I’m not American-born, but I’ve lived here, built my life here, and given everything to this sport. This act questions loyalty based on where you come from, not what you’ve done. It’s un-American. And the leader behind it? He’s draining the spirit of what this country stands for—opportunity, merit, and fairness.” His words hung in the air, delivered with the same precision he applies to overtakes on the track.
Social media exploded immediately. Fans of Dixon, who has cultivated a reputation as one of the most respected and apolitical figures in racing, were divided. Some praised him for speaking truth to power, calling it a “rare and brave stand” from a driver who usually lets his results do the talking. Others expressed disappointment, arguing that sports should remain separate from politics. Hashtags like #DixonSpeaksOut and #BoycottDixon trended within minutes, with thousands of posts flooding in. One viral tweet read, “Scott Dixon just dropped the mic on live TV.
Respect for saying what so many think but won’t say.” Another countered, “Stick to driving, Dixon. This is why we watch racing—to escape this nonsense.”
The Born-in-America Act itself has been mired in controversy since its rapid passage. Promoted as a measure to ensure only “natural-born” citizens hold federal office and to restrict certain rights for naturalized citizens, it has faced immediate legal challenges. Critics argue it violates constitutional principles of equal protection and due process, while supporters claim it safeguards national security and loyalty.
The act’s enactment has already led to protests in major cities, with demonstrators holding signs reading “America for All” and “No to Division.” In the motorsports community, where drivers come from diverse backgrounds—many international talents competing in IndyCar—the legislation has raised concerns about future participation and sponsorships.
Dixon, born in Australia but a longtime resident of the United States, has never shied away from the fact that his success is tied to American opportunities. He has won six IndyCar championships and the 2008 Indianapolis 500, earning him a place among the sport’s legends. His team, Chip Ganassi Racing, issued a brief statement following the interview: “Scott Dixon is a champion on and off the track. We support his right to express his views.” Yet the organization has remained neutral on the political issue itself.
Reaction from fellow drivers was mixed. Some, like fellow Kiwi Marcus Armstrong, expressed solidarity, tweeting, “Proud of Scott for standing up. This affects all of us.” Others, including American drivers who have stayed silent on the matter, declined to comment when approached. The IndyCar series has historically avoided political entanglements, but this incident has forced the conversation into the open. Series officials have yet to issue an official response, though insiders suggest they are monitoring the fallout closely.
Dixon’s comments come at a sensitive time for the sport. With the 2026 Indy 500 approaching and the season in full swing, attention should be on the cars, the competition, and the thrill of speed. Instead, the narrative has shifted to politics, and Dixon finds himself at the center of it. In the hours following the interview, Dixon posted a short message on his social media: “I spoke from the heart. Racing unites us, and that’s what I believe in. Let’s keep the focus on the track.” Yet the damage—or perhaps the spark—had already been lit.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: Scott Dixon, the quiet champion, has made his voice heard in a way few expected. Whether this moment defines him as a principled advocate or a divisive figure remains to be seen. In the high-stakes world of motorsports, where split-second decisions can change everything, Dixon has reminded everyone that sometimes, the boldest moves happen off the track. The tension is palpable, and the conversation is far from over.
