How is NASCAR honoring Humpy Wheeler? Tributes pour in after his death at 86

Howard Augustine Wheeler Jr., famous by the name Humpy Wheeler, died on August 20 at the age of 86. Most recognized for leading Charlotte Motor Speedway, he was an American motorsports executive and entrepreneur closely tied to NASCAR.

Remembering Wheeler and his contributions, NASCAR CEO and Chairman Jim France said in the press statement:

"Humpy Wheeler was a visionary whose name became synonymous with promotion and innovation in our sport. During his decades leading Charlotte Motor Speedway, Humpy transformed the fan experience through his creativity, bold ideas and tireless passion."

Continuing his statement, he said:

"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."

According to Charlotte Motor Speedway, Wheeler passed away from natural causes.

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Tributes pour in following the death of Humpy Wheeler

Charlotte Motor Speedway paid its tributes to Humpy Wheeler on X through the statement:

"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.

They further added:

"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."

Former NASCAR racing driver Rusty Wallace wrote on X:

"A NASCAR Hall of Fame Landmark Award winner, Humpy made an irreplaceable impact on our sport and how it operates. He was a true innovator that was far ahead of his time and he helped nurture countless future leaders in our sport. While Humpy may be gone, his legacy will undoubtedly live on. He will be greatly missed."

Former racing driver and businessman Mario Andretti shared a photo with Wheeler posted on X:

"Rest in peace Humpy Wheeler. There are many giants in the industry; Humpy was the master. There will never be another one like him. That is the enduring legacy of Humpy Wheeler. Godspeed and safe journey to heaven my friend."

Kurt Busch, an auto racing driver famous for taking part in the NASCAR Cup Series added on X:

"I’m saddened to hear about the passing of one of my favorite mentors & fellow inductee in the NASCAR HoF class of 2026. Humpy Wheeler transcended our sport like no other, & always had genuine advice for me. Told me to read this book when I was in one of my troubles. RIP Humpy"

Former racing driver Richard Petty, who competed in NASCAR Grand National wrote on X:

"I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Humpy Wheeler. Humpy was one of a kind, a true showman and one of the sharpest minds this sport has ever seen. He didn’t just promote races, he brought ’em to life. He understood what the fans came for, and he knew how to put on a show they’d never forget."

Ryan McGee, ESPN senior writer, remembering Wheeler, wrote:

"What a legend. If there has ever been someone who loved racing more, I've never met them. But he also never let racing define who he was. Godspeed, Humpy Wheeler. And thank you."

NASCAR Hall of Fame Executive Director Winston Kelley shared a tribute on X and through the press, honoring the memory of Humpy Wheeler. In one of the statements, he said:

"Humpy was well known for mentoring and assisting hundreds, if not thousands, of people throughout the NASCAR industry. Among them were the inaugural NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt and Landmark Award recipient Janet Guthrie, both of whom he supported at the initial stages of their NASCAR careers. I count myself among the many he mentored. His motive in helping others was always, quite simply, his passion and love for NASCAR and his desire to encourage others to do as he did — to leave things better than he found them."

Stock car racing executive Jeff Gordon also paid his respects through the statement:

"I was lucky to be one of the countless young drivers Humpy Wheeler supported as I made my way in NASCAR. He was a true promoter who always put the fans first. Everything with Humpy was larger than life, and his passion for the sport and its people will never be forgotten. He was a friend for many years and will be deeply missed."

Dave Moody, an American motorsports commentator, in his tribute post, wrote:

"Crushed to learn of the passing of the great Humpy Wheeler. He loved this sport and he loved its people. Very few ever did more for the fans. I will always remember him standing behind me in the announce booth at Thunder Road, saying “I’m just here to listen to you.“ #RIP"

NASCAR multimedia storyteller Steven Taranto, honoring Humpy, wrote on X:

"Took this photo of Humpy Wheeler signing his autograph after being named to the NASCAR Hall of Fame back in May. Very grateful to have been in his presence a few times. Even if it was just scooting my chair at the Charlotte Media Center in so he could pass through. RIP"

Former NASCAR blogger & journalist Bob Ellis wrote on X:

"Another important cog in NASCAR history is gone. Humpy, thank you for your help with Dale during his early years and most importantly thank you for the show!! Godspeed."

Along with racing drivers and industry leaders, fans from around the world are paying tribute to the late Humpy Wheeler on social media.

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