NASCAR community shares condolences with Coy Gibbs’ family, JGR

AVONDALE, ARIZ. — Members of the NASCAR community offered condolences to the illustrious Gibbs family after Joe Gibbs Racing announced Vice Chairman Coy Gibbs passed away.

NASCAR Chairman and CEO Jim France issued a statement, stating:

“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Coy Gibbs. On behalf of the France family and all of NASCAR, I extend my deepest condolences to Joe, Pat, Heather, the Gibbs family and everyone at Joe Gibbs Racing on the loss of Coy, a true friend and racer.”

Hendrick Motorsports, Trackhouse Racing and RFK Racing were among JGR’s competitors who offered condolences.

JGR driver Denny Hamlin tweeted a torch-bearing statement: “Today we will do what we don’t want to do, but we will unite as a family and race for the name on our chest.”

Teammate Kyle Busch also tweeted: “Words can’t describe this day. Today was already going to be tough enough but it’s even more gut-wrenching now. Heartbroken.”

Kyle’s brother and Toyota teammate, Kurt Busch, helped prepare the No. 23 Toyota to be run Sunday after Ty Gibbs was ruled out of the race and Daniel Hemric was named to fill in.

Kurt tweeted: “My heart is with the Gibbs family and our @JoeGibbsRacing family during this incredibly difficult time.”

Outgoing JGR sponsor M&Ms also tweeted, “Everyone at Mars is devastated to hear of the passing of Coy Gibbs. Our thoughts are with Coach, the Gibbs family and the entire JGR organization during this difficult time.”

Seven-time Cup champion Jimmie Johnson and long-time NASCAR lap-by-lap announcer Mike Joy also offered condolences.

Outside of NASCAR, 2016 INDYCAR champ and 2019 Indy 500 winner Simon Pagenaud also said, “Thinking about the Gibbs family. All my thoughts and prayers are with them.”