Danica Patrick Divorce Finalized

By Emma Koonse, Christian Post Reporter Friday, April 26, 2013

Danica Patrick has officially dissolved her marriage to Paul Hospenthal this week.

The record-making racecar driver married her former physical therapist in 2005. After seven years together, Patrick took to her Facebook page announcing their split.

"I am sad to inform my fans that after 7 years, Paul and I have decided to amicably end our marriage," the 31-year-old posted late last year. "This isn't easy for either of us, but mutually it has come to this. He has been an important person and friend in my life and that's how we will remain moving forward."

The NASCAR driver submitted the paperwork in Arizona's Superior Court of Maricopa County on Jan. 3, according to ESPN.

"My marriage is irretrievably broken and there is no reasonable prospect of reconciliation," Patrick wrote in the petition.

Meanwhile, Patrick recently admitted to dating 25-year-old fellow NASCAR driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr.

"I have a boyfriend, his name is Richard," said Patrick, according to The Associated Press. "I think I am just finally excited to tell someone about this."

When it comes to her driving career, Patrick is one of the most recognized and popular NASCAR drivers in the world.

Furthermore, the driver has posed for men's magazines including the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue, propelling her into stardom.

Patrick took center stage at the Daytona 500 earlier this year where she won the pole position during the race. The accomplishment marked the first time a woman had won the position during the Daytona 500- which is said to be the Super Bowl of NASCAR.

"She's one of the hottest commodities in the country right now, and not just in motor sports," explained Marty Reid, ABC sports commentator, according to The Associated Press.