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Who Was Ned Jarrett?
Known throughout the racing world as “Gentleman Ned,” Jarrett built a legendary career behind the wheel, winning 50 NASCAR Cup Series races and capturing championships in 1961 and 1965. He was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2011 and was named one of NASCAR’s 50 Greatest Drivers in 1998.
After retiring from driving in 1966, Jarrett became one of the sport’s most recognizable broadcasters. He worked for the Motor Racing Network, CBS, and ESPN, helping introduce generations of fans to NASCAR through his calm and knowledgeable commentary.
Former NASCAR driver Ned Jarrett dies at 93 (Photo by Robert Alexander/Archive Photos/Getty Images)
One of the most memorable moments of his broadcasting career came during the 1993 Daytona 500, when he openly cheered on his son, Dale Jarrett, as he battled past Dale Earnhardt for the victory. The emotional call remains one of the most iconic moments in NASCAR television history.
In a statement, Jarrett’s family remembered him as a devoted Christian, loving father, and friend to everyone he met. NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell praised Jarrett as both a fierce competitor and an outstanding ambassador for the sport whose influence spanned more than six decades.