The NASCAR community is mourning the loss of one of its early legends. Rex White, the 1960 NASCAR Cup Series champion and one of the sport’s pioneering stars, has passed away at the age of 94.
White, known for his determination and skill behind the wheel, was one of the last surviving links to NASCAR’s formative years. Despite standing just 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 135 pounds, he built a reputation as a giant on the track. Over his career, he amassed 28 wins, 163 top-10 finishes, and the 1960 title, all while competing on a modest budget against some of NASCAR’s most formidable names.
A Champion and Trailblazer
Born in Taylorsville, North Carolina, in 1929, White was diagnosed with polio as a child, but he overcame the odds to pursue his passion for racing. His perseverance paid off as he became one of the most consistent and respected drivers of his era.
White’s legacy was cemented when he was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2015, an honor that recognized his contributions to the sport’s early growth and his place among its elite champions.
NASCAR and Drivers Pay Tribute
News of White’s passing sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the NASCAR world.
“Rex White was a true racer and a champion in every sense,” NASCAR Chairman Jim France said in a statement. “His remarkable achievements on the track and his character off it made him a beloved figure in our sport. Our thoughts are with his family and fans.”
Kyle Petty wrote on social media: “Rex White embodied the grit and determination that built NASCAR. He was small in stature but larger than life to so many of us who grew up hearing his stories. Rest in peace, champ.”
The NASCAR Hall of Fame also posted a tribute: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of 1960 NASCAR Cup Series Champion and Hall of Famer Rex White. His impact on stock car racing will never be forgotten.”
A Legacy That Endures
Rex White’s career serves as a reminder of a time when stock car racing was raw and gritty, and its stars were as much mechanics as they were drivers. He became a symbol of hard work and determination, inspiring generations of racers who followed.
As the checkered flag falls on his remarkable life, the NASCAR community celebrates Rex White not just as a champion, but as a cornerstone of the sport’s history.
