George Steinbrenner IV released a statement Tuesday through Andretti Autosport on the death of his father, whom he called “a massive racing fan himself.”
Hank Steinbrenner, the oldest son of late New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner, died from what multiple media outlets reported was a long illness.
George Steinbrenner IV became the young team owner in IndyCar history at 22 when he formed Harding Steinbrenner Racing in 2019. He merged the team (with driver Colton Herta) into Andretti Autosport this season.
He credited his father with helping support his interest in racing.
“Ever since I can remember, my dad has always been my biggest supporter,” Steinbrenner IV said in the release. “He taught me determination, confidence and the desire to win above all else. Being a massive racing fan himself, when I sought to start a racing team, he stood in my corner the whole way.
“I will forever be grateful for all the lessons he taught me. I look forward to the day we are able to return to the track and race to win in his honor. Until then, my heart is with my family, our race team and the entire Yankees organization. Thank you to all for your kind words and support in this time.”
The release directed memorial donations to Friends of Joshua House Foundation or to a personal charity.
Thank you to all for the outpouring of kind words and support. pic.twitter.com/JMbcrpijmD
— George Steinbrenner (@GSteinbrennerIV) April 14, 2020