Neil Micklewright Sr.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN- Neil Micklewright, Sr., beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 26, 2026, after a long and courageous health journey. Born in Wednesbury, England on November 26, 1956, as the only child of his parents, Neil carried his heritage proudly throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his parents Reginald and Catherine (O’Brien) Micklewright. Neil spent 11 years in Formula One, where he worked as a mechanic at the highest levels of European motorsport. During those years, he worked for several notable British teams, including Team Ensign, Team Lotus, and Team Hesketh Racing, the iconic and flamboyant team founded by Lord Hesketh. This extensive, elite level background gave him a unique perspective on engineering, data, and precision operations — expertise he successfully brought into the American open wheel paddocks. Though he would later become widely known as an executive, Neil was a hands on mechanical wizard first, with a deep understanding of the machines and the people who made them perform. After coming to the United States in the early 1980s, Neil continued to rise through the ranks of American motorsport. He was part of the 1990 Indianapolis 500 winning team with Doug Shierson Racing, based in Adrian, Michigan, where he served as team manager. In that role, he oversaw the organizational logistics and pit execution that drove the team’s historic, record setting victory — an achievement he remained deeply proud of throughout his life. Neil’s later career included managing legendary teams such as Forsythe Racing, where he served as General Manager and Vice President of Operations from 1994 to 2009. During his tenure, he oversaw 33 race victories in CART and Champ Car competition. Under his direct operational leadership, the team achieved its greatest milestone by winning the 2003 CART Series Championship, a testament to his strategic vision, discipline, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Following his success in major open wheel racing, Neil founded Albion Motorsports, Inc., a specialized racing and engineering venture based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Through Albion, he used his expertise to focus on high end classic race car preparation, track side engineering consulting, and managing logistics for private racing clients. Albion Motorsports reflected Neil’s lifelong dedication to precision, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of performance — values that defined his entire career. Outside of racing, Neil found brotherhood and purpose with the Iron Pigs Motorcycle Club, Indianapolis Chapter, where he was lovingly known as “Limey.” His loyalty, humor, and unwavering commitment made him a treasured member for many years. Even beyond his professional life, Neil’s passion for automotive engineering never turned off. In the enthusiast community, he was known as a dedicated collector and tinkerer, notably owning and personally maintaining a classic 1991 Lotus Esprit SE. He took great pride in keeping the car in pristine condition, a reflection of the same meticulous care he brought to every machine he touched. Neil was also a passionate history buff, endlessly curious about the world and its stories. A lifelong lover of music, he carried a soundtrack for every chapter of his life and shared that love with everyone around him. Known for his generosity and practical skill, Neil was always willing to lend a hand fixing anything — a car, a household project, or whatever someone in his life needed. Helping others was simply part of who he was. Neil is survived by his daughter Rachel Hanning (Brett) and his son Neil Micklewright (Markelle); his grandchildren Rylen, Hadley, Loden, Brett Jr., and Chloe; his favorite aunt Maryrose O’Brien Wall; and many extended family members both in the United States and England. He is also survived by his former wife, Michelle (Sudborough) Micklewright, who remained one of his closest friends and devoted caregiver throughout his later years. Though no longer married, they honored the spirit of their vows with enduring friendship, love, and unwavering support until his passing. Following Neil’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service was held. Neil received exceptional care throughout his health journey, and his family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the physicians, nurses, and caregivers who supported him. The compassionate teams at Ascension Hospital in Indianapolis and Hospice of Lenawee in Adrian, Michigan provided not only medical expertise but genuine kindness, dignity, and comfort. Their dedication made an immeasurable difference in Neil’s final years and final days, and his family will forever be thankful. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Lenawee or the American Lung Association, in honor of the care and support that meant so much to Neil and his loved ones. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagley Funeral Home, Adrian, where online condolences may be shared at www.wagleyfuneralhomes.com

Neil Micklewright Sr.

November 26, 1956 - June 26, 2026