NASCAR Hall of Famer Bobby Allison dies aged 86

Bobby Allison, 1983 Cup Series champion, three-time Daytona 500 winner and 2011 NASCAR Hall of Famer, has died aged 86, his family has announced.

The patriarch of the iconic Alabama Gang, Allison’s career spanned over 25 years and included 85 Cup wins. He actually earned his 85th win just a few weeks ago when NASCAR finally ended a 53-year controversy and awarded a win that was rightfully his.

Allison was presented with a plaque on 23 October, recognising him as the winner of the 1971 Cup race at Bowman Gray, with the win giving him outright fourth place on the all-time wins list, moving clear of Darrell Waltrip.

In addition to his lone Cup title, Allison also collected several crown jewel events in his career as a three-time winner of the Daytona 500, a four-time winner of the Southern 500, and a three-time winner of the Coke 600.

He also earned the 1980 IROC title, beating legends like Waltrip, Rick Mears, Gordon Johncock, Mario Andretti, and Johnny Rutherford.

Allison was also a two-time starter of the Indianapolis 500 in 1973 and 1975, with a best finish of 25th on his second entry.

“With deep sadness, the family of Bobby Allison announces his passing at the age of 86. He passed away peacefully at home on November 9, 2024, surrounded by family. He had been in declining health over the past few years but continued to give back to the sport he loved.

“Bobby was the ultimate fan’s driver. He thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his fans and would stop to sign autographs and have conversations with them everywhere he went. He was a dedicated family man and friend, and a devout Catholic. 

“Arrangements have not been announced. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider donating to Bobby’s home church (St. Therese Catholic Church in Mooresville, N.C.), your local Catholic church or diocese, International Motorsports Hall of Fame Preservation Society or Victory Junction Gang Camp.”

In response to his passing, NASCAR Chairman & CEO Jim France said: “Bobby Allison personified the term ‘racer.’ Though he is best known as one of the winningest drivers in NASCAR Cup Series history, his impact on the sport extends far beyond the record books. As a driver, he won races and championships across several NASCAR divisions.

“But as the leader of the famous ‘Alabama Gang’ Bobby connected with fans in a profound manner. In the most significant ways, he gave his all to our sport. On behalf of the France family and all of NASCAR, I offer my deepest condolences to Bobby’s family, friends and fans on the loss of a NASCAR giant.”