NASCAR Legend Ned Jarrett Dies at 93: Remembering a Racing Icon and 'Gentleman' Champion
June 5, 2026
His family highlighted his devout Christian faith, devotion to family, and reputation as a kind, personable ambassador for the sport.
Ned Jarrett, a legendary NASCAR driver, Hall of Famer, two-time Cup Series champion, and longtime broadcaster, has died at age 93.
Jarrett won 50 NASCAR races and claimed Cup Series championships in 1961 and 1965, with the 1965 season featuring 13 wins and top-five finishes in 42 of 54 races, despite a serious back injury that year.
This is breaking news, with more information to follow as details emerge.
The report emphasizes that the story is developing and will be updated.
The release confirms the date and time of the news but provides only age and championships without additional biographical detail.
The obituary-style report includes archival AP imagery and credits, underscoring the passing as a major NASCAR moment.
Jarrett began racing locally in 1951 at Hickory Motor Speedway and won the 1955 Hickory track championship.
His career included notable teams such as Holloway in 1961 and Bondy Long in 1965, plus moments like pulling Fireball Roberts from a fiery crash in 1964.
He sustained a serious back injury in a 1965 Greenville-Pickens Speedway crash, contributing to his retirement from racing a year later.
Jarrett retired from driving after the 1966 season, shortly after his second championship, having been among the sport’s leaders in wins.
Beyond racing, he was known for off-track kindness and the nickname “Gentleman,” reflecting his character.
Summary based on 66 sources
Get a daily email with more US News stories
Sources

AP News • Jun 5, 2026
NASCAR Hall of Fame driver and longtime broadcaster Ned Jarrett dies at 93 | AP News
PEOPLE • Jun 5, 2026
Ned Jarrett, NASCAR Hall of Famer, Dies at 93
The Athletic • Jun 5, 2026
Ned Jarrett, former NASCAR driver, broadcaster and Hall of Famer, dies at 93