Legendary NASCAR Promoter and ‘Cars’ Star Humpy Wheeler Has Passed Away at 86
Humpy Wheeler, the legendary American motorsports executive and general manager of Charlotte Motor Speedway, has passed away at the age of 86.
Regarded as a pioneer of promoting in the motor racing industry, Wheeler was named general manager of Charlotte Motor Speedway in 1975, holding the post for an astounding 33 years.
Photo: Fox Sports
During his storied career, the promoter was viewed as a master showman, whose creative pre-race spectacles, unique marketing tactics, and fan-focused leadership helped NASCAR skyrocket in popularity during the 1980s and 1990s.
A Legendary Figure in NASCAR
Under Wheeler’s purview, Charlotte Motor Speedway became the first modern superspeedway to install permanent lights and host a major night race.
Photo: Daily Journal
He also championed fan amenities and introduced the Winston, a NASCAR All-Star race.
“Humpy Wheeler was a visionary whose name became synonymous with promotion and innovation in our sport,” Jim France, NASCAR chairman and CEO, wrote in a statement Thursday morning.
Photo: Charlotte Observer
“During his decades leading Charlotte Motor Speedway, Humpy transformed the fan experience through his creativity, bold ideas and tireless passion. His efforts helped expand NASCAR’s national footprint, cement Charlotte as a must-visit racing and entertainment complex and recently earned him the NASCAR Hall of Fame’s prestigious Landmark Award for Outstanding Contributions to NASCAR.”
An Unlikely Pixar Star
Outside of the NASCAR world, Wheeler is best known for his performance as Tex, the boss of fictional sponsor Dinoco, in the 2006 Pixar film Cars.
Photo: eBay
Wheeler landed the role after John Lasseter visited Charlotte Motor Speedway during the film’s early development.
Photo: eBay
After hearing Wheeler talk, the Cars director cast him as Tex. Wheeler would go on to reprise his role in 2017’s Cars 3.
Wheeler’s Cause of Death
News of Wheeler’s passing was first reported by Speedway Motorsports, which explained that he passed away peacefully of natural causes while surrounded by his family.
Humpy Wheeler. Photo: NASCAR
Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones and fans.
