Killed in the 1955 Indianapolis 500, whilst on course for his 3rd successive win. His son and grandson followed him into racing. Although described as a Russian, Vukovich was actually of Serbian descent. An introvert but good humoured man, Bill and his brother Eli, took over the family grape farm after his father died in the early 1930's. Both siblings would later race in midget events with Bill starting in 1938. He became West Coast Midget champion in 1946 and 1947 and AAA Midget Champion in 1950. Vukovich was never a full-time racer despite his success and at the time of his death was working as a service station manager.

Biography last updated 8 Mar 2016