The reaction to Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s decision to retire has been swift. Here’s a taste of what the motorsports community felt as news broke – including from the man himself.
Press Conference at 3pm to give me the opportunity to discuss the retirement news. Incredible to see the support today. #FinishStrong
— Dale Earnhardt Jr. (@DaleJr) April 25, 2017
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I’m proud of my great friend @DaleJr for everything he’s done for this sport. I’m even more proud of who he is as a man. Love you friend
— Tony Stewart (@TonyStewart) April 25, 2017
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Proud of all @DaleJr has accomplished & what he’s meant to @NASCAR. But more proud of who he is as a person.
— Jeff Gordon (@JeffGordonWeb) April 25, 2017
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Happy for @DaleJr and wish him nothing but the best.. He has made all of us better through his career in many different ways.. pic.twitter.com/NUOZKo4jVa
— Rodney Childers (@RodneyChilders4) April 25, 2017
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You’re a hell of a friend and teammate @DaleJr, I’m really happy for you and @AmyEarnhardt. ?
— Jimmie Johnson (@JimmieJohnson) April 25, 2017
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Happy for ya @DaleJr, nothing but respect. Let’s end it on a good note this year
— Chase Elliott (@chaseelliott) April 25, 2017
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Now we know why…
You’ve helped make this a better sport for so many of us, we wish you all the best in your retirement.https://t.co/9Ze6JZgZ70— Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) April 25, 2017
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Proud 2 say I worked w @DaleJr he is great driver & even better person. Thx 4 being a friend. Congrats on a great career behind the wheel. pic.twitter.com/ukFG1nuhBS
— Steve Letarte (@SteveLetarte) April 25, 2017
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I’m really excited for the next chapter in @DaleJr and @AmyEarnhardt lives. JR has made #NASCAR so much better and will continue to do so.
— Mark Martin (@markmartin) April 25, 2017
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Congrats on a great career @DaleJr, finish strong! Thx 4 all u have given this sport. All the best to u n Amy w the next chapter n ur lives
— Kyle Busch (@KyleBusch) April 25, 2017
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“Dale Earnhardt Jr. is among the most recognizable athletes in the world, unequivocally serving as the sport’s most popular driver for more than a decade,” said Brian France, NASCAR Chairman and CEO. “His passion for the sport will leave an impact on NASCAR that will be felt over its entire history. Over his 20-plus year career, Dale has proven himself a leader with a deep commitment to so many areas of the sport – all the way to its roots. We’re excited about the next chapter of his NASCAR career and wish him success for the remainder of 2017.”
In a statement, Indianapolis Motor Speedway president Doug Boles said, “Dale Earnhardt Jr. is a NASCAR legend, and everyone at IMS offers him best wishes after his retirement as a full-time driver. His legacy is secure as a champion, a winner, a great ambassador for motorsports and a class act. Dale always has given so much of himself to everyone, especially the fans. We’re looking forward to seeing him race one more time at IMS during the Brickyard 400 weekend on July 21-23. And, as a promoter, I’m usually neutral and support the field, but frankly I hope Dale wins the 2017 Brickyard 400!”
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