Ned Jarrett, two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, has passed away.

Champion at the highest peak of the NASCAR In 1961 and 1965, Ned Jarrett was a universally admired figure. Nicknamed "Gentleman Ned," Jarrett notably sold his car, which had won his first title in 1961, to Wendell Scott, the first Black driver in the championship. Victorious at the 1965 Southern 500, one of the most prestigious races on the calendar, Jarrett never achieved success in the Daytona 500, despite several notable results.

However, it was in this race, long after his driving career, that he made a different kind of mark on another generation of NASCAR fans. Having transitioned to a career as a commentator for American television, Jarrett had cheered on his son Dale, who was on his way to his first victory in the event in 1993. "It's the Dale vs. Dale show, and you know which Dale I'm rooting for, Dale Jarrett of course, he's still in the lead and he's going to win the Daytona 500!" he exclaimed, before apologizing to Dale Earnhardt for this lack of objectivity, which no one was blaming him for at that moment of course.

Dale Jarrett would go on to win the Daytona 500 two more times, as well as the Cup Series title in 1999. His father, Ned Jarrett, is remembered from the same era for his role as part of the commentary trio he formed with Benny Parsons and Bob Jenkins for ESPN. Ned Jarrett passed away this Friday at the age of 93. The entire AUTOhebdo team extends its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.

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