Bob Labonte, Father of Two NASCAR Cup Series Champions, Passes Away

What’s Happening

It’s a sad day for one of NASCAR’s most dedicated families. 2000 NASCAR Cup Series Champion Bobby Labonte announced on social media that his dad, Bob Labonte, has passed away. In a lengthy tribute, Labonte called his father, “A crew chief, a mentor, our biggest fan, our motivation at times, and our hero.”

This week, Terry and I lost our Dad. To many of you who knew him around the garage, you know he was larger than life. To us he was our Dad and also a crew chief, a mentor, our biggest fan, our motivation at times, and our hero. He and our Mom dedicated their lives to our racing… pic.twitter.com/ew97oN4LZQ

— Bobby Labonte (@Bobby_Labonte) April 9, 2024

• Bob Labonte is the patriarch of the Labonte family, which includes his sons Bobby (2000 Cup Series Champion) and Terry (1984 and 1996 Cup Series Champion) along with grandson Justin. Bob was a former crew chief in NASCAR for all three Labonte’s, including winning 3 Xfinity Series races with Terry.
• The Labonte family has a deep legacy in NASCAR. Bobby and Terry both are in the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and Bobby commended his late father for his commitment to his family member’s racing careers.
• Fans are saddened by this news. The Labonte family is one of the most beloved in all of motorsports, and fans are expressing their condolences to the family.

In the Stands

The Scene Vault Podcast says that there will never be someone else quite like Bob Labonte.

The Driver Suit Archive expresses his condolences.

Darryl Cabaniss is very saddened by this news.

Melany C. Aylor sends her own condolences.

Dr. Mark Howell is broken-hearted, like many over this tragic news.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Labonte family during this difficult time.