Bobby Allison, a legendary member of NASCAR’s “Alabama Gang” and a Hall of Famer, passed away at the age of 86 at his home in North Carolina. Though the cause of death was not disclosed, it was noted that Allison had been in poor health for some time. His impressive career included 85 Cup Series victories, with one of his wins being recognized just last month, moving him to fourth on the all-time victory list in the sport. France and Helton honored Allison with a plaque commemorating his historic win.
Inducted into NASCAR’s Hall of Fame in 2011, Allison was a former NASCAR champion and a three-time winner of the prestigious Daytona 500. Known for his dedication to his fans and his love for interacting with them, Allison was described as the ultimate driver who always made time for autographs and conversations with supporters. One of his most memorable moments in the sport was his infamous fight with Cale Yarborough during the 1979 Daytona 500, which became a defining moment for NASCAR and showcased Allison’s competitive spirit.
Born in Miami, Allison ventured to central Alabama in search of more racing opportunities and established himself as a dominant force on the track, alongside his brother Donnie and friend Red Farmer. The trio formed the Alabama Gang and went on to achieve great success in regional races during the 1960s and 1970s. Later joined by other drivers, including Allison’s sons, the Alabama Gang left a lasting legacy in the world of NASCAR before Allison’s retirement in 1988 following a near-fatal crash at Pocono.
Despite surviving the crash and attempting a comeback, Allison faced a series of tragedies that led to his retirement from racing, including the loss of his sons Clifford and Davey in separate incidents. Following a divorce from his wife Judy, Allison found solace in rekindling their relationship and eventually remarrying in 2000. Their enduring bond lasted until Judy’s passing in 2015, showcasing the strength and resilience of Allison in the face of personal challenges. His contributions to the sport earned him a spot in the Motorsports Hall of Fame and the NASCAR Hall of Fame, solidifying his place in racing history.
NASCAR Chairman Jim France praised Allison’s impact on the sport, highlighting his status as one of the winningest drivers in NASCAR history and his influence beyond the record books. Allison was among the select few drivers to achieve NASCAR’s career “grand slam,” winning iconic races like the Daytona 500, the Winston 500, the Coca-Cola 600, and the Southern 500. Additionally, Allison made a mark in the IndyCar Series, making six starts for Roger Penske, including two appearances at the prestigious Indianapolis 500. His legacy as a true racer and a pioneer in the world of motorsports will forever be remembered by fans and fellow racers alike.
