Stephen Montoya
Racing legend Mario Andretti makes a speech at the newly opened Andretti Karting & Games in Keller, Tuesday.
Racing legend Mario Andretti and family gathered with business leaders and supporters to celebrate the expansion of the fifth Andretti Indoor Karting & Games in Texas, Tuesday, Nov. 12. Yeah, it was under the guise of a coffee and dessert soiree, but this was most difinitely a celebration of the new spot.
Eddie Hamann, co-founder of Andretti Indoor Karting and Games, kicked off the event by thanking the Andretti family for their ongoing support and reminiscing about the company’s roots, which go back to late NASCAR driver John Andretti. John, who is Mario’s nephew, was the one with the vision to establish this family business.
“He’s with us in spirit, guiding us,” Hamann said. “This was his dream, and we’re building on the legacy he left us.”
John, who lost his battle to colon cancer in January of 2020, left his vision in the very capable hands of his family, who have helped Andretti Indoor Karting & Games expand from its original locale in Orlando, Florida, to eight, state-of-the-art entertainment and event destinations located in Florida, Georgia, Texas, and Arizona.
One of the newest locations opened north of Fort Worth porper at 2701 Andretti Karting Dr., the fifth in Texas, on September 25. This new nearly 100,000 square foot facility is equipped with a multi-level track and high-speed electric “Superkarts.” Besides offering attendees over 100 state-of-the-art arcade games, families can also enjoy laser tag in a two-story arena, Spark Bowling, a 7D Xperience Motion Theatre and more.
The facility’s centerpiece is a set of advanced racing simulators equipped with panoramic screens and full-motion actuators, crafted to mimic the experience of professional racing.
As far as fare, guests can savor chef-curated American favorites paired with local craft beers and specialty cocktails from the location’s full-service restaurant and bar.
"In racing, you only win if you're surrounded by the very best,” Mario said during his speech. “And here, we have assembled a team with that same winning spirit.”
Stephen Montoya
Eddie Hamann, co-founder of Andretti Indoor Karting and Games introduces Mario Andretti during a coffee and dessert event at the new facility in Keller.
The legendary driver shared his excitement about the next phase, which includes planned expansions into Glendale, Arizona, and other locations by end-of-year. The Andretti Indoor Karting & Games locations are expected to bring in 2,000 new jobs across five stores next year, as they continue the Andretti family's legacy in motorsport and entertainment.
“We want to be good neighbors and bring the best service, food, and entertainment to our valued customers,” Mario said. “We’re passionate about this, and we’re proud of what we’ve built.”
And Mario would know a thing or two about being proud and striving for excellence, given his legendary career as one of the most accomplished figures in motorsport history.
For over two decades Mario enjoyed a remarkable career spanning various racing disciplines, including Formula One, IndyCar, stock car racing, and endurance racing. His impressive achievements have cemented his legacy as a true legend of the sport.
Andretti competed in Formula One from 1968 to 1982, and his most significant achievement came in 1978 when he won the Formula One World Drivers' Championship with the Lotus team. Throughout his 14-season F1 career, Andretti won 12 Grands Prix, showcasing his skill and versatility on some of the world’s most challenging circuits.
In addition to his success in Formula One, Andretti also made a major impact in American open-wheel racing. He won four IndyCar National Championship titles and captured the prestigious Indianapolis 500 in 1969, one of the most coveted victories in motorsport. His victory in the Indy 500 further solidified his place among the elite racers of his era.
Andretti's talents extended beyond open-wheel racing into stock car racing, where he achieved further success, including a victory in the Daytona 500 in 1967. This win marked another significant milestone in his illustrious career, as Andretti became one of the few drivers to excel in multiple types of racing.
In endurance racing, Andretti proved his skills once again, securing three victories in the renowned 12 Hours of Sebring, one of the most challenging endurance races in the world. His adaptability across different racing formats showcased his driving prowess and strategic approach to competition.
As the event wrapped up, Hamann expressed gratitude to the team and family members, thanking everyone for trusting them to carry on the Andretti legacy. “We live and breathe this,” he said. “This is who we are, and we are ready.”
