NASCAR issues statement after death of Bob Labonte

NASCAR just paid tribute to a legendary figure, Bob Labonte. The organization released a statement after sons Bobby Labonte and Terry Labonte shared the news that their father died earlier this week.

“NASCAR extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Bob Labonte, the patriarch of the Labonte family,” the statement read. “Bob was a champion owner and crew chief whose guidance helped lead sons Terry and Bobby into the [NASCAR Hall of Fame.] He will be missed.”

Bobby Labonte announced the news on his X (formerly known as Twitter) account. “This week, Terry and I lost our Dad,” Bobby wrote. “To many of you who knew him around the garage, you know he was larger than life. To us he was our Dad and also a crew chief, a mentor, our biggest fan, our motivation at times, and our hero. He and our Mom dedicated their lives to our racing careers and to our family. We are deeply saddened by the loss of our Dad, although we know he is in a far better place. We thank everyone for their support during this difficult time.”

NASCAR legend Richard Petty also released a statement which said, “Richard Petty and The Petty Family is deeply saddened by the loss of Bob Labonte. He was instrumental in shaping the careers of his sons, Terry and Bobby, and his contributions to the sport won’t be forgotten. The Labonte Family is in our thoughts and prayers.”

More details on Bobby Labonte’s life

Bob Labonte was born in 1933 and introduced his sons to racing at an early age. He helped Bobby and Terry Labonte become NASCAR Hall of Famers and the 75 best drivers in history. Bob also fielded NASCAR Xfinity series cars for multiple seasons, winning the series title with his son Bobby and David Green, according to Speed Sport.

“There is not any one person more dedicated to racing and being good at it than Bob Labonte,” Aaron “Slick” Yeomans, a close friend to the Labonte family, told CBS News Texas in 2016. “He was kind of behind the scenes a lot and anybody that knows Terry knows his dad. Bob did a lot for him, and sacrificed a lot, and his mother did, too. She was part of it and it’s been a family deal.”