FOX Sports and NASCAR Studios revealed on Tuesday that the documentary “We’ve Lost Dale Earnhardt: 25 Years Later” will be broadcast on FS1 on Thursday, February 12th at 10 p.m. ET. The film revisits the heartbreaking passing of NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt during the final lap of the 2001 Daytona 500, with next month’s race marking 25 years since the tragedy.
Barry Nugent, FOX Sports’ vice president of development and original programming, expressed that their collaboration with NASCAR enables them to share stories that embody the spirit of the sport. He added that this film honors the enduring legacy of Dale Earnhardt, one of NASCAR’s most iconic and influential figures.
The documentary delves into the man behind the driver’s seat, highlighting how one impactful moment forever altered the sport and continues to inspire today’s competitors. On that final lap in 2001, Earnhardt, a revered figure in racing, crashed into the Turn 4 wall and died instantly.
The film includes rare footage and personal recollections from former NASCAR president Mike Helton, who famously announced Earnhardt’s death, as well as testimonies from drivers who raced that day, including Rusty Wallace and Kurt Busch. Current Cup Series drivers like Kyle Busch, Joey Logano, and Ryan Blaney also share their perspectives.
John Dahl, NASCAR’s senior vice president of content, recalled the unforgettable moment Mike Helton declared, “We’ve lost Dale Earnhardt,” pointing out how the documentary uses that watershed instant to explore the lasting impact the tragedy has had 25 years later.
The documentary also covers the reactions of race broadcasters Mike Joy, Darrell Waltrip—whose brother Michael won that Daytona 500—and Larry McReynolds during FOX’s inaugural NASCAR broadcast. Additionally, it addresses the safety innovations implemented in the sport following Earnhardt’s death.
Dale Earnhardt shares the record for most NASCAR Cup Series championships, tied with Richard Petty and Jimmie Johnson at seven titles, and ranks eighth all-time with 76 career wins. His son, Dale Earnhardt Jr., who finished second in the 2001 Daytona 500, raced full-time from 2000 to 2017, earning 26 career victories.
Fan Take:
This documentary is a powerful tribute that reminds NASCAR fans of the profound loss the sport endured while celebrating Earnhardt’s legendary influence. By revisiting this pivotal moment, it reinforces the importance of safety advancements and the enduring passion that drives NASCAR forward.
