NASCAR issues statement following Bob Labonte's death

NASCAR just paid tribute to a legendary figure: Bob Labonte. The organization released a statement after sons Bobby Labonte and Terry Labonte broke the news earlier this week that their father had died.

“NASCAR extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Bob Labonte, patriarch of the Labonte family,” the statement said. “Bob was a champion owner and crew chief whose guidance helped launch sons Terry and Bobby into the world [NASCAR Hall of Fame.] He will be missed.”

Bobby Labonte announced the news on his X account (formerly known as Twitter). “Terry and I lost our father this week.” Bobby wrote. “Many of you who knew him in the shop know he was larger than life. For us, he was our father and also a crew chief, a mentor, our biggest fan, at times our motivation and our hero. He and our mother dedicated their lives to our racing careers and our family. We are deeply saddened by the loss of our father, although we know he is doing much better. We thank everyone for their support during this difficult time.”

NASCAR legend Richard Petty also released a statement saying, “Richard Petty and the Petty Family are deeply saddened by the loss of Bob Labonte.” He was instrumental in shaping the careers of his sons Terry and Bobby, and his Contributions to sport will not be forgotten. The Labonte family is in our thoughts and prayers.”

More details about Bobby Labonte's life

Bob Labonte was born in 1933 and introduced his sons to racing at an early age. He helped Bobby and Terry Labonte become NASCAR Hall of Famers and among the 75 greatest drivers in history. Bob also drove NASCAR Xfinity Series cars for several seasons, winning the series title with his son Bobby and David Green, they say Speed ​​sports.

“There is no one more dedicated to racing and good at it than Bob Labonte,” Aaron “Slick” Yeomans, a close friend of the Labonte family, told CBS News Texas in 2016. “He was behind the scenes, so to speak.” Many things and everyone who knows Terry knows his father. Bob did a lot for him and sacrificed a lot, and so did his mother. She was part of it and it was a family deal.”