CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — A ceremony filled with stars celebrated the induction of two iconic NASCAR drivers into the Hall of Fame. Ricky Rudd, known as the “Ironman” for his impressive record of 788 consecutive starts spanning over 32 years, was recognized for his toughness and determination. Despite facing challenges like racing with swollen eyes held open by duct tape or enduring second-degree burns from a team mishap, Rudd never backed down from the demands of his job on the track.
Fellow Hall of Famer Richard Petty praised Rudd for his unwavering commitment to racing and his ability to stand up for himself, which often prevented conflicts during the rougher days of NASCAR. Jeff Gordon shared a humorous anecdote of having to share an ambulance with Rudd after a crash, relieved to see Rudd already seated in the front seat to avoid a potential fist fight.
Joining Rudd in the Hall of Fame was Carl Edwards, a popular driver who left the sport abruptly after a controversial loss of a Cup Series title. Edwards, known for his charm in public but perceived as fake by some competitors, reflected on his past behavior and expressed regret for not fostering better relationships with his fellow racers.
After an eight-year absence, Edwards returned to the NASCAR community, grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with the sport and its fans. Looking ahead, he expressed interest in television work and potential roles with Amazon’s upcoming broadcast coverage.
Hall of Fame team owner Joe Gibbs commended Edwards for his professionalism and contribution to the sport, emphasizing his status as a superstar on the track. Edwards’ comeback and future plans signal a new chapter in his racing career, marked by a renewed commitment to NASCAR and its community.
A controversial caution was issued, resulting in Edwards being caught up in a wreck during the restart. “I distinctly recall him sitting down and expressing, ‘Hey, Joe, I believe it’s time for me to step back from racing,'” reminisced Gibbs. “And I was taken aback, thinking, ‘What? Here’s a guy at the peak of his career, and for him to make that statement, it was truly one of the most astounding things I’ve experienced in sports.”
Also inducted on the evening of Friday was the late Ralph Moody, who was posthumously elected through the pioneer ballot. Dr. Dean Sicking, recognized for developing the life-saving SAFER barrier following the tragic passing of Dale Earnhardt in 2001, was bestowed with the Landmark Award for his significant contribution to the sport. Additionally, retired motorsports journalist Mike Harris from The Associated Press was acknowledged as the recipient of the 2025 Squier-Hall Award for NASCAR Media Excellence.
Moody had served under Gen. George S. Patton during World War II before returning to Florida in 1949 to pursue a career in racing. As a driver, he clinched victory in five races before joining forces with John Holman in 1957 to establish Holman-Moody Racing. This partnership, spanning from 1957 to 1973, led to consecutive championships with David Pearson triumphing in 1968 and 1969. Moreover, under their banner, Mario Andretti secured the winning car for the 1967 Daytona 500.
Throughout its existence, Holman-Moody Racing amassed an impressive record of 96 wins and 83 pole positions, with a roster of drivers including Hall of Famers Joe Weatherly, Fred Lorenzen, Fireball Roberts, Bobby Allison, and Pearson.
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