Fred Lorenzen, one of the most iconic figures in NASCAR history, has died at the age of 89. His passing was announced on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, by Jim France, NASCAR’s Chairman and CEO.
Lorenzen, a celebrated Hall of Fame driver, leaves behind a legacy as one of the sport’s first superstars. He was celebrated for his remarkable achievements, including 26 NASCAR Cup Series race wins, which encompass his triumphs at the Dayton 500 and Coca-Cola 600. Lorenzen’s influence extended far beyond individual victories, as his charisma and drive helped bring NASCAR into the national spotlight.
Born in Elmhurst, Illinois, Lorenzen began racing professionally from 1956 to 1972 and he was initially one of the few racers who came from outside the Southern United States, breaking regional barriers and attracting fans from across the country.
Over his career, Lorenzen participated in 158 NASCAR Cup Series races, clinching victory at some of the sport’s most prestigious events. His dominance was especially pronounced in the mid-1960s when he won eight of the 16 races he entered in 1964, during which he impressively led 1,679 out of 1,953 possible laps.
(L-R, back row) NASCAR Hall of Famers Ned Jarrett, Leonard Wood, Glenn Wood, Darrell Waltrip, Bud Moore, Junior Johnson, Dale Inman, Rex White, Richard Petty, Bill Elliott, Jack Ingram, Bobby Allison, (L-R front row) Maurice… (L-R, back row) NASCAR Hall of Famers Ned Jarrett, Leonard Wood, Glenn Wood, Darrell Waltrip, Bud Moore, Junior Johnson, Dale Inman, Rex White, Richard Petty, Bill Elliott, Jack Ingram, Bobby Allison, (L-R front row) Maurice Petty, and Fred Lorenzen pose for a photo opportunity after the 2015 NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at NASCAR Hall of Fame on January 30, 2015 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Fred Lorenzen sadly passes away. More Lance King/Getty Images
Lorenzen was twice voted as NASCAR’s most popular driver. His contributions were instrumental in propelling NASCAR from a regional phenomenon into a nationally recognized sport.
His efforts weren’t only confined to NASCAR. He excelled in the USAC Stock Car Series, winning championships in consecutive years, 1958 and 1959. His career milestones include being the first driver in NASCAR history to earn more than $100,000 in a single season, which he achieved in 1963.
Jim France, reflecting on Lorenzen’s passing, shared the deep respect the NASCAR community holds for him. He explained: