Ned Jarrett, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and pioneering broadcaster, passed away Thursday at 93. He died peacefully at his Newton, North Carolina home surrounded by family.
What We Know: Jarrett won championships in 1961 and 1965, finishing with 50 wins in just 352 starts across a 13-year career. He also claimed back-to-back Sportsman titles in 1957 and 1958. After retiring at 34, Jarrett transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting. He hosted a daily radio show, reported for MRN, and later called races for CBS and ESPN from 1979-2000. His emotional CBS call of the 1993 Daytona 500 — with son Dale Jarrett behind the wheel — remains one of sports broadcasting’s most iconic moments.
What They Said: The Jarrett family released this statement: “While we mourn his passing, we celebrate the remarkable life of an amazing man and truly the best father anyone could have wished for. Rest in Peace, Dad.”
NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell added: “Despite his calm demeanor, ‘Gentleman’ Ned Jarrett was as fierce a competitor as NASCAR has ever seen. Ned was an outstanding ambassador for the sport for more than six decades, and he will be dearly missed.”
NASCAR Legend Richard Petty: “The Petty family is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ned Jarrett. Ned was one of the true gentlemen of our sport and a fierce competitor whose talent, integrity, and dedication helped shape NASCAR into what it is today.”
What Remains Unclear: Formal memorial arrangements are unknown. Additionally, the full scope of tributes from the broader sports media community is still developing. Jarrett joined the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2011. Just two years before his son Dale joined him there in 2014.
What It Means: Jarrett’s death closes a memorable chapter in NASCAR history. Few figures shaped both the competitive and media landscapes of the sport as profoundly as Jarrett. His career arc — from champion driver to beloved broadcaster — set a template others still follow.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.
