Headline: NASCAR Mourns the Loss of Legendary Crew Chief Ray Evernham at 68
Story:
The NASCAR community is reeling from the heartbreaking news of the passing of Ray Evernham, one of the sport’s most influential figures, who died peacefully at his home in North Carolina at the age of 68.
Evernham, a Hall of Famer and celebrated crew chief, was best known for his dynamic partnership with Jeff Gordon in the 1990s, helping to lead the No. 24 team to three NASCAR Cup Series championships. His innovative approach to car setups and race strategy revolutionized the role of the modern crew chief and played a pivotal role in ushering NASCAR into a new era of dominance and popularity.
Beyond his mechanical genius, Evernham’s passion for racing extended into team ownership and broadcasting, where he remained a beloved presence in the garage and on the air. Colleagues remember him as a fiercely intelligent competitor with a deep love for the sport and an unwavering commitment to mentorship and innovation.
Jeff Gordon issued a heartfelt statement: “Ray wasn’t just a crew chief—he was a brother, a mentor, and the reason I became the driver I was. I’m devastated.”
Evernham is survived by his wife, former driver Erin Crocker Evernham, and their children. Tributes are pouring in from across the motorsports world, a testament to the legacy of a man who helped shape modern NASCAR.
A memorial service will be held next week in Charlotte. The racing world may never be the same, but it will always be better because of
Ray Evernham.
