To close out 2025, one of IndyCar’s most decorated drivers was awarded knighthood by his home country of New Zealand.
Scott Dixon was given the title of Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit on December 31, making his new official title Sir Scott Dixon, KNZM.
Dixon’s award was given ‘for services to motorsport,’ highlighting how important his sporting accomplishments are in his home country.
A Knight Companion is the second-highest appointment in New Zealand’s royal honours system, second only to a Knight Grand Companion designation.
A total of seven people were given the title of Dame Companion or Knight Companion for the 2026 celebration, and Dixon was the only person to receive the award for a sports-related achievement.
Dixon was previously appointed Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2019, with his status elevated this year on account of his continued accomplishments.
The official notice of his appointment in the New Year Honours List 2026 lists a few of his extensive accolades and highlights his Indianapolis 500 win in 2008 and his Rolex 24 at Daytona win in 2020 as well.
At 45 years old, Dixon is the only active driver in American open wheel motorsports to have won six championships and is second only to AJ Foyt in all-time titles.
The veteran has logged at least one victory in each of the past 21 years, an incredible achievement that brings his total race wins to 59.
Dixon also continues a 20-year streak of finishing sixth or higher in the championship standings, making just how consistent he has been throughout his professional career.
Dixon begins his 25th season with Chip Ganassi Racing on March 1 when he takes to the streets of St. Petersburg for the season opening round of the NTT IndyCar Series.