NASCAR chairman Jim France releases heartfelt statement on death of broadcaster Ken Squier
Legendary NASCAR broadcaster Ken Squier died on Wednesday at the age of 88.
Squier’s death sent the NASCAR world into mourning, as it remembered the legendary figure. That included NASCAR chairman Jim France, who released a heartfelt statement on Squier’s passing Thursday morning.
“Though he never sat behind the wheel of a stock car, Ken Squier contributed to the growth of NASCAR as much as any competitor,” France wrote. “Ken was a superb storyteller and his unmistakable voice is the soundtrack to many of NASCAR’s greatest moments.”
“His calls on TV and radio brought fans closer to the sport, and for that he was a fan favorite. Ken knew no strangers, and he will be missed by all. On behalf of the France family and all of NASCAR, I offer my condolences to the family and friends of Ken Squier.”
A Vermont native, Squier took over as the lap-by-lap commentator for CBS in 1979. He held that role until 1997. He also did lap-by-lap commentary for TBS from 1983 to 1999. He was a member of the 2018 NASCAR Hall of Fame class. Among his other honors, Squier is also in the New England Auto Racers Hall of Fame, Vermont Sports Hall of Fame, and the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America.
Among the many accolades that Squier earned in his career, he’s also known for dubbing the Daytona 500 the “great American race,” forever tying him to the sport.
A friend of Squier’s, Dave Moody, announced his passing on social media.
“It’s over,” Moody wrote. “Ken earned his wings last night at 8:20 PM ET, surrounded by his incredible, loving family. I grieve for the loss of my dear friend and lifelong mentor, but rejoice in the fact that his pain and struggle are over. Thanks everyone for all the prayers and good wishes.”
Kyle Petty remembers the great Ken Squier with a heartfelt message
Ken Squier was a legend in NASCAR and his impact was felt by drivers and fans alike. In the wake of his death, there has been an outpouring of support for him, including from Kyle Petty, who shared some thoughts about Squier on social media.
“It’s a sad day,” Petty wrote. “Ken Squier changed the sport more way than he knew and in more ways than fans today will ever know. From Thunder Road to starting MRN, to bringing live TV to the sport, his knowledge and passion may never be seen again. God speed my friend.”