Humpy Wheeler, legendary Charlotte Motor Speedway NASCAR race promoter, dead at 86

This morning, Charlotte Motor Speedway confirmed the passing of legendary race promoter, H.A. “Humpy” Wheeler. He was 86. Wheeler was responsible for some of the biggest and most out-of-the-box events and promotions in NASCAR.

Not only did Humpy Wheeler know how to put on a show, but he also helped springboard the sport into the mainstream. If it weren’t for Wheeler, the night race wouldn’t exist for tracks like Charlotte, Daytona, and other large venues.

Today, the NASCAR community is remembering the longtime race promoter. As President and General Manager of the track known as America’s Home for Racing, Wheeler helped define an era of motorsports and NASCAR racing. His impact is still felt today.

Charlotte Motor Speedway released a statement on Wheeler’s passing. There have been many touching tributes to the late icon throughout the morning.

“Charlotte Motor Speedway was blessed to have a leader in Humpy Wheeler who can only be described as ONE of a kind. For more than 30 years, Humpy was a promoter’s promoter at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

“Alongside our founder, Bruton Smith, Humpy pushed the speedway to new and greater heights – establishing the famed 1.5-mile superspeedway as not only the most innovative facility in NASCAR for fan, partner and competitor amenities, but also one of the most progressive in all of sports.

“Humpy’s engaging smile and flair for promotion were legendary, and his impact on every stakeholder in motorsports will be long-lasting. Often described as the ‘P.T. Barnum of motorsports,’ Humpy not only made his mark with publicity but also with a laser focus toward the fans. He would often tell his staff to pay attention to “the three Ts – tickets, traffic and toilets” in order to ensure fans have the best possible experience. He would also say it was our job to put a little ‘technicolor in people’s black-and-white lives.'”

“While the motorsports world has lost an icon, the legacy H.A. “Humpy” Wheeler created by building and promoting remarkable events at Charlotte Motor Speedway will continue for generations to come.”

Jim France releases statement on Humpy Wheeler

The NASCAR world has collectively mourned Humpy Wheeler this morning. From drivers to media members and others who had the chance to interact with Wheeler, there have been many statements and stories shared online.

Jim France, Chairman and CEO of NASCAR, released a statement. It is a touching tribute to his life and work.

“Humpy Wheeler was a visionary whose name became synonymous with promotion and innovation in our sport,” France said in a statement. “During his decades leading Charlotte Motor Speedway, Humpy transformed the fan experience through his creativity, bold ideas and tireless passion. His efforts helped expand NASCAR’s national footprint, cement Charlotte as a must-visit racing and entertainment complex and recently earned him the NASCAR Hall of Fame’s prestigious Landmark Award for Outstanding Contributions to NASCAR. On behalf of NASCAR and the France family, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Wheeler family and all who were touched by his remarkable life and legacy.”

While Humpy Wheeler has passed, he will not be forgotten. During his time at Charlotte Motor Speedway, he pushed the limits. Even now, the speedway remains a place where limits are pushed and new ideas are tested.

When NASCAR goes to the Roval, it is a reminder of that legacy. Marcus Smith has done his best to keep thinking of new ideas for the speedway. Wheeler did so much for NASCAR.