Key Stat: Unser's St. Louis win gave him at least one victory in both years that he competed on the IRL circuit. (his 2000 win came in his third start at Las Vegas Motor Speedway).

2002 Outlook
What needs to be done: At present, Unser finds himself without a ride in the IRL. His only full time seat is behind the wheel of an IROC car. His Galles team suffered a last minute loss of promised sponsorship after Budweiser decided to reduce their marketing. Unser hoped for a ride with Red Bull team Cheever, but that seat has gone to Jody Scheckter's son. A drive with Team Kelley is a good possibility although all parties have been mum on the subject (it was announced after publication of this piece that Unser will join Team Kelley).

Prediction: Cheever may be eventually credited with righting the career of Unser, but, not necessarily with a ride offer. It was Cheever who pulled no punches with Unser and accused him of being out of shape and lacking the commitment necessary to compete in the IRL. His work with a personal trainer has Unser facing this season lighter, leaner and with more muscle tone that ever in his entire career.