“Rest In Peace” NASCAR Hall of Famer Bobby Allison dies at…read more
Bobby Allison, the iconic NASCAR Hall of Famer and founder of the celebrated “Alabama Gang,” has passed away at age 86. Allison, who made a legendary impact on American motorsports, died on Saturday, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades of historic achievements and an enduring connection with NASCAR fans and the racing community. His career is enshrined in NASCAR history, where his name is repeatedly found in the record books.
Allison sits high in NASCAR’s all-time rankings, finishing his career with 85 wins, placing him fourth in premier series victories. His consistency and competitiveness also shine through in his second-place ranking for top-five finishes, totaling 336, and a strong 14th for overall starts, with 718 to his name. His racing resume includes several marquee victories that contributed to his induction into NASCAR’s second Hall of Fame Class in 2011. Among his career highlights, he celebrated three wins at the iconic Daytona 500, four at the Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway, and three at Charlotte’s Coca-Cola 600, proving his ability to win across different premier tracks.
One of the most memorable moments in Allison’s career came during his final Daytona 500 win in 1988 when he narrowly bested his own son, Davey, to capture the checkered flag, an emotional victory that underscored Allison’s competitive drive and family connection to the sport. Allison was honored earlier this year when he was named among NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers, a testament to his enduring influence and accomplishments.
Jim France, NASCAR’s chairman and CEO, praised Allison, describing him as the embodiment of a true racer whose dedication to the sport extended well beyond personal victories. “Bobby Allison personified the term ‘racer,’” France said, recognizing not only his success as a driver but his legacy as the leader of the Alabama Gang—a group of drivers with a dedicated following who brought Southern grit and flair to stock car racing. France expressed condolences to Allison’s family, friends, and fans, acknowledging his loss as that of a “NASCAR giant.”
Allison’s career began in 1961 and spanned nearly three decades, ending in 1988. Alongside his notable Cup Series achievements, he also had two victories in what is now known as the Xfinity Series and claimed the International Race of Champions title in 1980. He won the title of NASCAR’s most popular driver six times.
Bobby and his brother Donnie, along with racer Red Farmer, were key figures in Alabama’s racing scene, known as the “Alabama Gang.” This trio transformed short-track racing in Hueytown, Alabama, during the late 1950s, building a racing legacy that influenced generations to come.
