Yardbarker
x
NASCAR World Paying Tribute To Dale Earnhardt On Tuesday
David Tucker / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The days surrounding the Daytona 500 are always a little bittersweet as NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt lost his life during the 2001 edition of the iconic race.

On February 18, 2001, Earnhardt was killed in a three-car crash on the final lap of the Daytona 500. His car collided head-on into the retaining wall going over 150 miles per hour, killing him from the impact.

Today marks the 24-year mark since his tragic passing and NASCAR fans around the world are paying tribute to the racing legend.

"There will never be another Dale Earnhardt Sr. He will live in our memories forever," the Atlanta Motor Speedway posted on X this morning.

"Godspeed, Mr. Dale Earnhardt. Your life and your legacy will live on forever. 24 years later, and you're still as important and as loved as ever," another user wrote.

"Rest in Peace to the GOAT, Dale Earnhardt. It's been 24 years and nothing has been the same. Today, we do it for Dale #RIP," wrote a third.

"Still brings water to me eyes when i think of that day..... All the words don't help but remembering him does and those gone too soon. My 1st fav driver is Davey , thx ......."

"Dale Earnhardt wasn’t just a racer, he was a symbol of grit, determination, and fearlessness."

"Illl never forget that scene of DEs wreck. It just seemed in slow motion as he hits the wall and how it looked so non- life threatening. It just didn’t make sense. Im not so naive to not know how crashes can maim or kill but I still smh at Dale’s wreck. RIP Intimidator."

To call Dale Earnhardt a legend in NASCAR is almost an understatement. He was a seven-time NASCAR Cup champion with 76 career wins in 676 races over his 27 years in NASCAR. He enjoyed race wins in four different decades and is one of the select few to win the Daytona 500 as both a driver and an owner.

Earnhardt's No. 3 car was so iconic that NASCAR even retired the number from usage on other cars for many years after his death.

We all miss you, Dale!

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!