NASCAR legend Bobby Allison passes away at age 86

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Bobby Allison, the irreplaceable 1983 NASCAR Cup Series champion who won 84 races and officially an 85th as of just a few weeks ago, has died. He was 86.

NASCAR confirmed Allison passed away peacefully at his home Saturday, surrounded by his family. Allison faced declining health over the past few years but still remained dedicated to the sport.

“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,” the statement read.

Allison began his Cup Series career in 1961 at the young age of 23. Four years later, Allison returned to the Cup grid, earning three Top-10 finishes in an eight-race schedule in 1965 before going full-time the next year.

He won three times in 1966, proving his local short-track prowess on a big stage. That prowess elevated itself to the bigger tracks, winning the Daytona 500 in 1978, 1982 and 1988. He even swept Daytona in 1982, which wouldn’t be done again for another 31 years.

One big crown always eluded him — the NASCAR Cup Series championship. 18 seasons into his career, he did it, making NASCAR history.

Family was paramount for Allison, who was a key member of the Alabama Gang and finished 1-2 with his son Davey in the 1988 Daytona 500. On-track grit and determination helped him in life when sons Davey and Clifford in the span of about a year. No matter the trials of life, Allison remained steadfast and dedicated to the sport that gave him so much.

In 2011, the NASCAR Hall of Fame enshrined Bobby Allison into its hallowed walls as an inductee.

Still, one thing still eluded him . For years, Allison insisted he had 85 wins and sole possession of fourth on the all-time Cup wins list.

Weeks before he passed away, NASCAR officially acknowledged that win.

With family at his side honoring his immeasurable legacy, love and life, there was nothing left to elude Allison. A competitive heart may beat still. But still, future generations will feel it roar evermore.

Allison was 86 years old.

Allison’s family is asking people to consider donating to the St. Therese Catholic Church in Mooresville, N.C. that he went to.

Statement from NASCAR Chairman and CEO Jim France

“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.”