Willy T. Ribbs to share his inspiring story at SEMA Show

Legendary African American race car driver Willy T. Ribbs will share his story of triumph and overcoming adversity during a special Fireside Chat with moderator Beth Paretta of Paretta Autosport at the 2023 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Fireside Chat will take place Thursday, Nov. 2, in the North Hall (Room N258) beginning at 11 am. The event is part of a comprehensive SEMA Show Education program that focuses on leadership and year-round skill development.

Ribbs, “The Man. The Myth. The Legend,” will share his incredible life story as a pioneer in motorsports, shattering barriers and paving the way for generations of racecar drivers.

“The most important lesson I’ve learned throughout my career is to never quit on yourself, because the only person who’s going to beat you is you,” said Ribbs. “That’s a lesson that applies in life as well as on the racetrack, and I’m looking forward to sharing that with SEMA Show attendees.”

Ribbs has defied barriers and made history at every step in his motorsports career. Behind the wheel, he’s competed in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series, the IndyCar Series and the IMSA GT Championship. He is the first African American to qualify for the Indianapolis 500, win a major professional race in the United States and to drive a Formula 1 race car.

Born in northern California, Ribbs became interested in racing at 9 years old watching his father, William “Bunny” Ribbs Sr., a plumbing contractor and amateur sportscar racer, and serving on his race team. After moving to Europe to compete in 1977, at 22, Ribbs won the Dunlop/Autosport Star of Tomorrow FF1600 in his first year of competition, winning six races in 11 starts.