NASCAR boss pays tribute after death of legend Fred…read more
NASCAR Chairman and CEO Jim France has honored the late Fred Lorenzen, a NASCAR legend, following his death at the age of 89. Lorenzen, who was born in Illinois, made his NASCAR Cup Series debut in 1956, but his first victory didn’t come until 1961 at Martinsville Speedway. Over the course of his career, Lorenzen amassed 26 NASCAR Cup Series wins, including a triumph at the Daytona 500 in 1965 and two Coca-Cola 600 victories at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Known for his driving prowess, Lorenzen earned the nickname “Golden Boy,” reflecting his success on the track.
Though Lorenzen retired from racing, his legacy lived on. He was inducted into both the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 1991 and the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2015. Lorenzen’s passing, attributed to complications from dementia, came earlier this month, marking the end of a remarkable era in the sport.
In response to the news of his death, Jim France expressed his condolences, highlighting Lorenzen’s vital role in the growth of NASCAR. “Fred Lorenzen was one of NASCAR’s first true superstars,” said France. “A fan favorite, he helped NASCAR expand from its original roots.” He also praised Lorenzen for his influence in bringing NASCAR into the mainstream, noting that his success and charisma helped the sport gain popularity, especially through its portrayal in the media. France concluded, “For many years, NASCAR’s ‘Golden Boy’ was also its gold standard, a fact that eventually led him to the sport’s pinnacle, a rightful place in the NASCAR Hall of Fame.”
On behalf of the entire France family and NASCAR, Jim France extended heartfelt condolences to Lorenzen’s friends and family, recognizing his lasting impact on the sport.
