NASCAR legend Cale Yarborough, famed for his commanding performances on the racetrack, died aged 84 on Sunday, December 31, 2023, in Florence, South Carolina.

Yarborough, a native of Timmonsville, South Carolina, rose from humble farm life to achieve legendary status in the world of NASCAR, his journey a testament to his unwavering determination and resilience.

His impressive NASCAR career spanned more than four decades, featuring 83 Cup Series victories, inclusive of four Daytona 500 triumphs and five Southern 500 wins at Darlington Raceway. Yarborough is one of a select group of seven drivers to achieve more than 80 Cup Series victories and shares the record for the sixth-highest number of wins in NASCAR history with Jimmie Johnson.

One of the most memorable events of his career took place during the 1979 Daytona 500, the first to be broadcast live nationwide. A collision on the final lap between Yarborough and Donnie Allison led to a skirmish with Allison and his brother Bobby, an event that drew enormous public interest to NASCAR.

Yarborough won three successive Cup Series championships from 1976 to 1978, a record that remained unbroken until Jimmie Johnson clinched five consecutive titles from 2006 to 2010. Yarborough stepped away from full-time racing in 1980.

Even after retiring, Yarborough’s influence was felt off the track. He ventured into the automobile industry and served as a member of the Florence County Council, demonstrating his dedication to public service.

Jim France, NASCAR Chairman and CEO, paid tribute to Yarborough, recognizing him as one of the greatest drivers ever. Yarborough was honored with an induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2012.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Jo, and their three daughters, Julie, Kelley, and B.J.