After 17 years, Dale Earnhardt Jr. is bringing back an unforgettable piece of NASCAR history. The 6-time Cup Series winner is set to don his legendary red Budweiser firesuit once more, rekindling the nostalgia of his glory days on the track. The return of the iconic suit, paired with the No. 8 car, has fans buzzing with excitement as they prepare to witness a piece of NASCAR history at Florence Motor Speedway… Continue Reading
After 17 years, one of NASCAR’s most beloved figures is set to reignite a wave of nostalgia that fans thought was lost to history. Dale Earnhardt Jr., the six-time NASCAR Cup Series winner and two-time Daytona 500 champion, will once again don the iconic red Budweiser firesuit and take the wheel of the No. 8 Chevrolet in a special exhibition race at Florence Motor Speedway later this summer.
The announcement, made jointly by JR Motorsports and Florence Motor Speedway, immediately sent ripples across the motorsports community. Fans young and old are eagerly anticipating the return of the image that defined a generation of racing: Dale Jr. in his signature red suit, behind the wheel of a roaring stock car bearing the No. 8.
A Tribute to a Defining Era
Dale Earnhardt Jr. became a household name in the early 2000s, not only for his racing prowess but also for the iconic partnership with Budweiser, which became synonymous with his brand. The vivid red suit and No. 8 car are etched into NASCAR lore, symbolizing a time when Earnhardt Jr. captivated millions with his gritty racing style and larger-than-life persona.
“Putting that red suit back on feels like stepping into a time machine,” said Earnhardt Jr. in a press statement. “It brings back so many memories — not just for me, but for all the fans who lived through those moments. It’s emotional, it’s exciting, and above all, it’s an honor to bring it back.”
Not Just a Throwback — A Celebration of Legacy
The return of the Budweiser red suit is not just about rekindling the past; it’s a celebration of Earnhardt Jr.’s enduring legacy and the impact he’s had on the sport. Since retiring from full-time competition in 2017, Earnhardt has remained active in the racing world as a team owner, broadcaster, and occasional driver in Xfinity Series events. However, this event marks his first reappearance in the Budweiser firesuit since 2008.
The race car itself has been meticulously recreated to match the specifications of Earnhardt Jr.’s early 2000s Cup Series machine. While Budweiser is no longer an official sponsor, special permission was granted for the use of its retro branding, creating a rare and legally approved homage to one of the most recognizable sponsorships in NASCAR history.
Event Details and Fan Experience
The special event will be held at Florence Motor Speedway in South Carolina, a track rich in short-track tradition. The date is slated for August 24, 2025, and will include a full evening of racing, tributes, and fan-focused experiences.
Among the highlights:
- Dale Jr.’s Return in the No. 8 Car
- Vintage Car Parade featuring throwback paint schemes from NASCAR history
- Fan Zone Experiences with exclusive merchandise, autograph sessions, and live Q&A panels with NASCAR legends
- Pre-race Tribute Ceremony to honor the Earnhardt family legacy
- Concert and Fireworks Show post-race
Florence Motor Speedway officials expect a record turnout, and have already begun preparations for expanded seating
