Gordon could equal Indy win record

Gordon was one of a group of drivers with the most wins at Indianapolis Motor Speedway prior to Michael Schumacher's latest victory in the US Grand Prix, which broke the tie of four wins at the venue they shared with A.J. Foyt, Al Unser and Rick Mears. Gordon has won the 400-mile NASCAR event four times in total.

"I have four wins here - four of the most amazing wins of my career," said Gordon, who despite being born in California, pursued his racing career in Indiana. "Any time you win at Indy, whether it's your first win or your fourth, is incredible.

"I witnessed Schumacher's fifth win and knew the comparisons would begin. But I don't even compare what we've done in a stock car to what Mears, Unser and Foyt did. Those guys are legends here."

Gordon's victories have twice coincided with his championship seasons, once in 1998 and then again in 2001. However, he believes even if he doesn't win next Sunday, it doesn't mean he won't win the Nextel Cup this year.

"It's just coincidence, but I do think the strong teams run well here," said Gordon. "Winning or losing this weekend does not mean you will win or lose the championship.

"This track has long straightaways and flat corners. The four corners look the same but are totally different from one another. It takes horsepower, aerodynamics, a good setup and a driver that can really hit his marks and give good information back to the team."

Gordon arrives at Indy with a healthy lead in the driver standings including four victories, which give him an additional 40 points once the Chase for the Nextel Cup starts.