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Statements from Brian France, Chevrolet on Dale Earnhardt Jr. retirement announcement

NASCAR, Monster Energy Announce Premier Series Entitlement Partnership

LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 01: Brian France, NASCAR Chairman and CEO, speaks during a press conference as NASCAR and Monster Energy announce premier series entitlement partnership at Wynn Las Vegas on December 1, 2016 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Monster Energy, which will begin its tenure as naming rights partner on Jan. 1, 2017, will become only the third company to serve as the entitlement sponsor in NASCAR premier series history, following RJ Reynolds and Sprint/Nextel. (Photo by David Becker/Getty Images)

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NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France issued the following statement following Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s official announcement Tuesday afternoon that he would retire at season’s end:

“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.

“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.”

Earnhardt has raced only in a Chevrolet his entire racing career.

mark reuss chevy

Chevrolet Executive Vice President Mark Reuss

That prompted Mark Reuss, Executive Vice President, Global Product Development, to also issue a statement:

“Dale Jr. is more than just a racer and competitor. He is a true champion. He was born into a racing family, grew up around the sport, worked as a service technician in his father’s Chevrolet dealership and became a successful NASCAR driver, Chevrolet Dealer and team owner. Dale Jr. has always been part of our Chevrolet family.

“We know that Dale Jr. is going to have a positive influence on the sport and for our brand for many years to come. We look forward to continuing our partnership with JR Motorsports and Dale Earnhardt Jr. Chevrolet.

“Most importantly, Dale Jr. will always be our friend and we thank him for his tremendous contributions as a driver for Chevrolet.”