NASCAR Hall of Fame driver and broadcaster Ned Jarrett dies aged 93
NASCAR Hall of Fame driver and legendary broadcaster Ned Jarrett has died peacefully of natural causes at his home in North Carolina aged 93.
The two-time Cup champion secured 50 race victories during a remarkable career that peaked with top-tier titles in 1961 and 1965.
His second championship was particularly extraordinary, as the motorsport icon won 13 times and finished in the top five in 42 of 54 races despite breaking his back in a mid-season crash.
Early retirement and broadcasting fame
The North Carolina native chose to step away at the pinnacle of his profession aged just 34, retiring during the 1966 season after Ford withdrew their manufacturer support.
Following his driving days, he transitioned into a beloved media figure with extensive broadcasting stints across national radio and television networks.
One of his most enduring moments behind the microphone occurred at the 1993 Daytona 500, where he famously abandoned journalistic neutrality to cheer his son Dale across the finish line ahead of Dale Earnhardt.
Both men are now enshrined in the Hall of Fame, representing only the second father-son duo to capture championships at the sport’s highest level.
Tributes paid to ‘Gentleman Ned’
His family released a heartfelt statement on Thursday confirming his passing and paying tribute to his exceptional character.
“Our father was a devout Christian and a devoted, loving family man,” the Jarrett family said.
“While we mourn his passing, we celebrate the remarkable life of an amazing man and truly the best father anyone could have wished for.”
Often referred to affectionately as ‘Gentleman Ned’, the revered competitor was officially inducted into the sport’s Hall of Fame in 2011 as part of its prestigious second class.
NASCAR chief executive Steve O’Donnell praised his enduring legacy both on and off the racetrack.
“Despite his calm demeanor, ‘Gentleman’ Ned Jarrett was as fierce a competitor as NASCAR has ever seen,” O’Donnell stated.
“Ned was an outstanding ambassador for the sport for more than six decades, and he will be dearly missed.”
