By Jerry Jordan, Editor

The reactions to the death of retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his family, along with his friend Craig Wadsworth and two pilots, Dennis and Jack Dutton are still pouring and not limited to just the racing community. Below is a compilation taken from various emailed statements and social media posts about the tragic news from Thursday, December 18, 2025.

RICHARD PETTY, RETIRED NASCAR DRIVER

Richard Petty and the Petty Family are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle and his family. Greg was not only a fearless competitor, but someone who showed that same fearlessness in his generosity to others. Our deepest condolences to their loved ones.

KURT BUSCH, RETIRED NASCAR DRIVER, FORMER BIFFLE TEAMMATE

I am devastated to hear of the passing of my friend Greg Biffle, his wife, Cristina, and their children Emma and Ryder. This kind of loss is impossible to understand, and I’m keeping their loved ones in my thoughts and prayers during this tragic time.

KYLE BUSCH, NASCAR DRIVER

Such a tragic and heartbreaking day. Greg and Cristina were truly special friends to us, we loved them as well as Emma and Ryder dearly. Greg’s compassion and humanitarian spirit—especially in times of crisis—touched so many lives and inspired everyone who knew him. The memories we shared, both on and off the racetrack, will stay in our hearts forever. They meant so much to us, and they will never be forgotten.

TONY STEWART RACING

We join the motorsports community in mourning the passing of Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, children Emma & Ryder, Craig Wadsworth and Dennis & Jack Dutton. Greg was the definition of a racer… a fierce competitor on-track and dedicated to giving back post-career in his tireless humanitarian work. The Biffle, Grossu, Lunders, Wadsworth and Dutton families are in our prayers. – TSR

DENNY HAMLIN, NASCAR DRIVER

Today the motorsports world lost one of its fiercest competitors and kindest souls. Greg Biffle was a champion on the track and a humanitarian off it, whose impact reached far beyond racing. We also mourn the loss of his wife Cristina and children Emma & Ryder, along with Craig Wadsworth, Dennis Dutton, and his son Jack. My heart is with all their families and loved ones.

RYAN BLANEY, NASCAR DRIVER

Awful to hear about Greg and his family. He was somebody I had the privilege of admiring on tv and got to compete against. One of the all time greats both on and off the track. The 16 will always be iconic.

JEFF GORDON, RETIRED NASCAR DRIVER

Devastating news. I had such tremendous respect for Greg as a driver, and we shared countless tough battles on the track. Like so many others, I was inspired by his tireless relief work during Hurricane Helene. My heart goes out to the Biffle family and everyone hurting.

HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS

We mourn the loss of Greg Biffle and his family. He was a fierce, respected competitor whose heart and generosity reached far beyond the racetrack. Our condolences to his loved ones, his fans and all who are grieving.

BRANDON JONES, NASCAR DRIVER

My heart is heavy hearing about the Statesville plane crash. The impact Biffle made on our sport and community can’t be put into words. So close to the holidays, this is heartbreaking. Thinking of his family & friends.

CLINT BOWYER, RETIRED NASCAR DRIVER

Absolutely crushed about the loss of Greg Biffle and his beautiful family. An unbelievable talent behind the controls of literally anything. Checked all the boxes…Great guy, helped people in need, and most importantly was a great family man. Devastated for everyone!

STEFAN PARSONS, NASCAR DRIVER

Just totally heartbreaking. Remembering all Greg did for the NASCAR community, and his humanitarian work for those in need during Hurricane Helene. All around class act. RIP

JR MOTORSPORTS

We join the racing community in mourning our long-time competitor, Greg Biffle. Our thoughts and prayers are with him, his family and everyone who was lost in today’s tragedy.

JOEE GIBBS RACING

Everyone at Joe Gibbs Racing is heartbroken by this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those involved.

RYAN HUNTER-REAY, INDYCAR DRIVER

My god. Just setting the bus up, plugged the TV cable in the first thing I see was the news of Greg and his family passing away. Every hair on my body stood up. Emotions hit like a ton of bricks. Posting on X doesn’t do it justice, Felt I had to say something. Need an outlet somehow. Can’t say enough about Greg, time I spent with him and his wife Cristina. Their children… people just don’t get much better than that family.

CONOR DALEY, INDYCAR DRIVER

I feel lucky to have got to enjoy some beverages and talk motor racing with Greg Biffle after a couple SRX races. Extremely welcoming and generous guy. Such a sad day…

GARRETT SMITHLEY, NASCAR DRIVER

Praying for Greg and Cristina’s family and friends and the families of those that were on board with them. Greg was a hero on and more importantly off the track. There’s no doubt he saved countless lives. Praying for the @NASCAR community tonight.

RYAN PREECE, NASCAR DRIVER

Life is short. Hold the ones you love a little tighter. R.I.P. Biff

REGAN SMITH, NASCAR DRIVER

Absolutely heartbroken for all those involved in today’s accident. Prayers to their loved ones and friends. Greg’s on track achievements were incredible, but it’s what he and Christina did in the wake of Hurricane Helene that truly defined them. All will be missed.

KYLE PETTY, RETIRED NASCAR DRIVER

My heart breaks for the Biffle, Dutton and Wadsworth families. I hardly have the words. Greg was one of the best that ever sat in a race car. But more important than that, his humanitarian efforts far outweigh anything he ever did on the racetrack. He will be missed. God Speed. Keep praying. Never give up faith.

MICHAEL WALTRIP, RETIRED NASCAR DRIVER

Cheers Biff, Craig. You were great people. Always help others is what I think of when I think of you two. Many prayers to your family and loved ones. Love y’all.

RICKY STENHOUSE JR., NASCAR DRIVER

Had the opportunity to learn from the Biff when I first got in to the sport. Great teammate, great human, and great family. Such a tragic day today…

JEREMY MAYFELD, FORMER NASCAR DRIVER

We raced each other hard & clean, & I always respected that about Greg. He was a fierce competitor & someone who did alot of good 4 his community away from the track. My heart breaks for the loss of Greg, his wife, & their children. Praying 4 their families & everyone hurting.

RICO ABREU, RACECAR DRIVER

I never met Greg Biffle but man did he inspire the shit out of me and a lot of others with his genuineness in helping others when they needed it the most. Sending prayers to all those involved in today’s tragedy.

JORDAN FISH, DENNY HAMLIN’S FIANCEE

My heart aches for the entire Biffle family and victims involved. My heart is especially heavy for Greg and Nicole’s daughter, Emma, who was a friend to both my girls. Emma had the biggest heart, and would always stop and give me a hug. Our hearts are with them.

KEVIN KENNEDY, RETIRED PR/MARKETING PARTNER CAMPBELL MANAGEMENT

Gutted by the loss of The Biff and his family. A great Ford driver whose heroic work to save lives in WNC after Hurricane Helene showed a true heart for serving others. Loved working with him, and a favorite memory will always be him capturing Ford’s 1,000th NASCAR win in 2013.

JEN HEBERT, RETIRED MOTORSPORTS PR

My heart aches for everyone affected by today’s plane crash and for the families left behind. I crossed paths with Biffle through both the industry and in the Mooresville community, and he and his family will be deeply missed.

JIM BEAVER, PRO OFF-ROAD RACER

DAMN IT. @gbiffle you were every bit the friend and such an amazing human. Enjoyed our talks, appreciate that you never turned down one of my crazy ideas, never turned down an interview, never turned down a sim race, and God I loved the laughs. So wish I’d have been able to make one of the Triple B 100’s you invited me to every year. You and Cristina were always so kind and amazing to me. You will be missed. Godspeed my friend.

MARIO ANDRETTI, RETIRES INDYCAR DRIVER

It will forever be the #GregBiffleCrash. What a sad & shocking day. I’m praying for Greg, Cristina and little angels Emma and Ryder. Also for peace and strength to Emma’s mom Nicole Lunders . Greg… a star driver and a star in his second act as a humanitarian.

MARCUS SMITH, SPEEDWAY MOTORSPORTS PRESIDENT & CEO

Heartbroken to hear of the tragic loss of Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, and their beautiful children Emma and Ryder in today’s plane crash. Greg was a NASCAR legend and an even greater humanitarian who helped so many in need. Prayers for their family, friends, and the entire racing community during this devastating time.

DOUG RICE, PRN BROADCASTER
It was an honor to be hosting on @SiriusXMNASCAR today along with @DGodfatherMoody It was a privilege to talk with so many fans about the positive interactions they had with @gbiffle Prayers to everyone affected by this tragedy. God Bless all of you.

FORD RACING

We are devastated by the loss of our dear friend, his family, and friends that were on the plane with him this morning. Greg was not only a champion driver, he was a great husband, father, son, and friend who did whatever he could to support his community and those associated with NASCAR. He’ll forever be part of the Ford family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone touched by this tragedy.

CHRIS RICE, KAULIG RACING

I’m heart broken to hear the news of Greg Biffle and his family. Greg has been so important to our sport and helped so many lives over the years. My thoughts and prayers are with the Biffle family and everyone affected by this extremely sad news.

NICK TERRY, MOTOR RACING OUTREACH

It’s been a tragic day for our racing community. I’m heartbroken personally, and sad for our community. I pray for God’s peace & comfort, & if you need us at MRO, we’re here for you. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” Ps 34:18.

FRANKLIN GRAHAM, SAMARITAN’S PURSE PRESIDENT

We were deeply saddened to learn that retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, 14-year-old daughter Emma, and 5-year-old son Ryder were killed in a plane crash in Statesville, NC, today. Greg was a pilot and used his own helicopter to deliver aid, and helped rescue people stranded in the mountains of western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee after Hurricane Helene last year. Our hearts go out to their family members and loved ones—please lift them up in prayer during this very difficult time.

SONOMA RACEWAY

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Greg Biffle and members of his immediate family. Sonoma Raceway was honored to host and support Greg throughout his remarkable motorsports career. He was not only an accomplished driver, but a generous humanitarian and a genuinely kind person who left a lasting impact on our sport and community. He will be greatly missed. Our heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with his family, friends, and all those who knew and loved him during this incredibly difficult time.

CHRIS LAMBERT, NASCAR SPOTTER FOR DENNY HAMLIN

Thoughts and prayers for the families of those hit the hardest by today’s news, and also prayers for our NASCAR family as we mourn the tragic loss of a beautiful family which included a great driver, but an even better man!

STEVE NEWMARK, PRESIDENT RFK RACING, RETIRED

There are no words to express the sadness around the tragic passing of Greg Biffle and his family. Greg brought boundless energy and insatiable curiosity to everything he tackled in life. He had such a positive impact on all of us, and he and his family will be deeply missed.

BRAD DAUGHTERY, CO-OWNER HYAK MOTORSPORTS

Sending my deepest condolences and prayers to the Biffle family. Greg was a great man and an even better friend. A devastating hit to our NASCAR family.

WILLY T. RIBBS, RETIRED NASCAR DRIVER

A Great human being.

PERFORMANCE RACING NETWORK

We’re devastated by the loss of Greg Biffle and his family today. Greg accomplished so much in motorsports, but what truly stood out was the person he was and the way he treated others. His impact on this community goes far beyond the racetrack.

MOTOR RACING NETWORK

Words do not describe the devastation our racing community experienced today. The Biffle family leaves a legacy in Motorsports and their humanitarian efforts in helping fellow North Carolinians after Hurricane Helene. We will continue to remember them for all of their incredible accomplishments on and off the track. Our prayers are with friends, family, and all loved ones of those affected by today’s tragic event.

ORRY LEE KENNEDY, NASCAR FAN

What a fun loving selfless guy. His devotion to the people and victims of western North Carolina during the hurricane Helene aftermath was really inspiring. Just a charming fella who oozed goodness and immediately made you feel like a friend after meeting him. His energy was high like he was a happy kid in a candy store. Another good one gone too soon! Rest in peace ‘Biff’

WINSTON KELLEY, NASCAR HALL OF FAME EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

“First and foremost, on behalf of the NASCAR Hall of Fame team, I want to offer our most sincere condolences to the Biffle, Grossu and Dutton families on the tragic passing of Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, son Ryder and daughter Emma as well as NASCAR veteran Craig Wadsworth, Dennis Dutton and son Jack.

Greg’s accomplishments are extensive, as represented by his nomination to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, but eclipsed by the quality person he was.

Greg was recognized with the National Motorsports Press Association (NMPA) Myers Brothers Award in 2024 and North Carolina Motorsports Association’s (NCMA) Philanthropy Award in 2025 for his extraordinary work delivering supplies to the thousands of people impacted by the devastation of Hurricane Helene.

In NASCAR, Greg was the 2002 NASCAR Busch (now O’Reilly Auto Parts) series champion and 2000 NASCAR Craftsman Truck series champion, the first driver to win the championship in both of those series. He won 56 races in NASCAR’s national series, 19 in the NASCAR Cup Series, 20 in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and 17 in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. In 2023 during NASCAR’s diamond anniversary, he was named one of NASCAR’s 75 greatest drivers.

Both his record across NASCAR’s national series and his reputation as one of NASCAR’s most versatile drivers validates his nomination for the NASCAR Hall of Fame and selection as one of NASCAR’s 75 greatest drivers.

Greg and his wife Cristina were also ardent supporters of the NASCAR Hall of Fame Foundation participating in numerous fundraisers to assist children most in need through the Hall’s educational programming. 

NASCAR is and has always been a family sport and we are devasted by this loss. Their legacy and the incredible influence they left will be forever remembered and engrained in our hearts and minds.”

RFK RACING
All of us at RFK Racing are devastated by the heartbreaking news involving the Biffle family. Greg Biffle has long been a cherished member of our racing family. As a person, family man and driver, his accomplishments helped form a cornerstone of our organization. We extend our deepest condolences to the Biffle family and to all of their loved ones and friends during this incredibly difficult time.

JACK ROUSH, RFK FOUNDER
The entire Charlotte sports community has suffered a tremendous loss. The tragic accident involving Greg Biffle and his family today is incredibly heartbreaking.  l have lost a dear friend and partner in our NASCAR program. His contributions to our race team over the years are immeasurable. My condolences are with all those who loved and knew Greg and his family.

BRAD KESELOWSKI, RFK RACING CO-OWNER & NASCAR DRIVER
I am heartbroken by the news involving the Biffle family. I had the privilege of racing alongside Greg for many years, and like so many in our sport, I gained deep respect for him not only as a champion on the racetrack, but as a competitor who helped define an era of NASCAR. His impact on Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing runs deep, and his accomplishments helped lay a foundation we continue to build upon today. My thoughts, and that of the entire organization, are with the Biffle family and everyone close to them as they navigate this tremendously difficult time.

RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING

RCR mourns with the NASCAR community. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the family of Greg Biffle and the other families suffering today. Greg was a respected competitor, conservationist and philanthropist.

KIP CHILDRESS, CARS TOUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Words cannot describe my feelings right now… The Biffle family, friends and everyone they have had an impact on are in my prayers.

RICKY CARMICHAEL, MOTOCROSS CHAMPION

What a horrible tragedy today. I was lucky enough to have a few conversations with Greg from time to time and he was always so nice, and generous with his time. Thoughts and prayers to everyone affected by what happened.

DOUG YATES, ROUSH-YATES ENGINES

An incredible race car driver and an even better person, Greg’s bravery and selflessness were evident in everything he did. He was always willing to help those in need, as shown through his courageous work during hurricane relief efforts. From the DDS Father Daughter Dance to our family’s enjoyment and connections in the Bahamas, Greg’s love and devotion for his family was something I had the privilege to witness firsthand. A NASCAR Truck and Xfinity Champion, he will always be remembered as one of NASCAR’s greatest and a true American hero. Please keep his family, friends, and all those affected in your prayers.

XFINITY RACING

We are mourning the loss of 2002 Xfinity Series champion Greg Biffle with his wife Cristina and children Emma & Ryder in a tragic plane crash in North Carolina. We will forever remember Biffle’s humanitarian efforts following the devastation of Hurricane Helene.

NASCAR

“NASCAR is devastated by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, Craig Wadsworth and Dennis and Jack Dutton in a fatal plane crash.

Greg was more than a champion driver, he was a beloved member of the NASCAR community, a fierce competitor, and a friend to so many. His passion for racing, his integrity, and his commitment to fans and fellow competitors alike made a lasting impact on the sport.

On the track, Greg’s talent and tenacity earned him championships in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, as well as numerous wins and accolades in the NASCAR Cup Series. Beyond his racing career, he gave of himself for the betterment of our community. Most notably, Greg spent countless hours of his time helping the citizens of North Carolina during the disasters that followed Hurricane Helene. His tireless work saved lives.

Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Greg’s entire family, friends, and all who were touched by his life.”

J. DOUG BOWLES, INDIANAPOLIS MOTOR SPEEDWAY PRESIDENT

Everyone @IMS is saddened by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle, his family, and those involved in today’s plane crash. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Biffle family, friends, and his legion of fans.

SEAN DUFFY, SECRETARY U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Greg Biffle wasn’t just a NASCAR legend — he was a true patriot who used his platform, wealth, and resources to help people. When Hurricane Helene devasted communities across Western North Carolina, he jumped into action to save lives and deliver critical supplies. His dedication was an inspiration to @USDOT and everyone involved in the cleanup effort. I even interviewed Biffle last year when I was with Fox Business, and I saw then his heart of gold and commitment to service. Our prayers are with his loved ones as they face this horrible tragedy. @FAANews investigators are already enroute and will support the @NTSB‘s investigation.

TOM TILLIS, U.S. SENATOR, NORTH CAROLINA

Susan and I are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle and his family. Greg was a titan in the NASCAR community both on and off the racetrack. After Helene devastated Western North Carolina, Greg stepped up without hesitation by using his own personal helicopter to rescue victims and provide crucial aid to North Carolinians in need. Through his selfless service, Greg demonstrated what service truly looks like. His impact will be felt for years, and he and his family will truly be missed.

PAT HARRIGAN, U.S. CONGRESSMAN, N.C.

Greg Biffle was someone a lot of North Carolinians knew and respected, and today’s news is incredibly sad. Beyond his racing career, people saw who he was when it mattered, especially after Hurricane Helene, when he stepped in to help communities that were struggling. That’s what many in this state will remember. My thoughts are with his family and everyone grieving. It’s a sad day for our state.

 RICHARD HUDSON, U.S. CONGRESSMAN, N.C.

am devastated by the loss of Greg, Cristina, and their children, and my heart is with all who loved them. They were friends who lived their lives focused on helping others. Greg was a great NASCAR champion who thrilled millions of fans. But he was an extraordinary person as well, and will be remembered for his service to others as much as for his fearlessness on the track. The Biffles flew hundreds of rescue missions in western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene. The last time I spoke with Cristina, just a couple of weeks ago, she reached out to ask how she could help with relief efforts in Jamaica. That’s who the Biffles were. Our prayers are with their family, friends, and everyone grieving this unimaginable loss.

CINCINNATI REDS, MLB TEAM

Our hearts are heavy after learning of the loss of NASCAR legend Greg Biffle. We were honored to welcome him to our ballpark earlier this year, and grateful for the moments shared. Sending our deepest condolences to his family, friends and fans.

Toyota Motor Corporation works to develop and manufacture innovative, safe and high-quality products and services that create happiness by providing mobility for all. We believe that true achievement comes from supporting our customers, partners, employees, and the communities in which we operate. Since our founding over 80 years ago in 1937, we have applied our Guiding Principles in pursuit of a safer, greener and more inclusive society. Today, as we transform into a mobility company developing connected, automated, shared and electrified technologies, we also remain true to our Guiding Principles and many of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals to help realize an ever-better world, where everyone is free to move.

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Greg Biffle, his two children, Emma and Ryder, as well as his wife Cristina Grossu were among those killed in a North Carolina plane crash on Thursday.

Rep. Richard Hudson, who is the chairman of the Congressional Motorsports Caucus, shared the news on X regarding the NASCAR driver and his family.

“I am devastated by the loss of Greg, Cristina, and their children, and my heart is with all who loved them.

“They were friends who lived their lives focused on helping others. Greg was a great NASCAR champion who thrilled millions of fans. But he was an extraordinary person as well, and will be remembered for his service to others as much as for his fearlessness on the track.

“The Biffles flew hundreds of rescue missions in western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene.

“The last time I spoke with Cristina, just a couple of weeks ago, she reached out to ask how she could help with relief efforts in Jamaica. That’s who the Biffles were.

“Our prayers are with their family, friends, and everyone grieving this unimaginable loss.”

The Cessna C550 was carrying six people when it crashed at the Statesville Regional Airport around 10:15 a.m.

Golfers playing next to the airport were shocked as they witnessed the disaster, even dropping to the ground at the Lakewood Golf Club while the plane was overhead. The ninth hole was covered with debris.

“We were like, ‘Oh my gosh! That’s way too low,’” said Joshua Green of Mooresville. “It was scary.”

The National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA were investigating. AccuWeather says there was some drizzle and clouds at the time of the crash.

The plane had planned to fly later from Sarasota, Florida, to Treasure Cay International Airport in the Bahamas before returning to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and then to Statesville by evening, data showed.

In 2000, Biffle won the Truck Series in 2000 was the NASCAR Rookie of the Year in 2001. He won the Xfinity Series in 2002.

Biffle was nominated for the NASCAR Hall of Fame earlier this year and was inducted into the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame.

The Associated Press contributed to this article

December 18, 2025

Mooresville, NC — Nitro Motorsports is proud to confirm that Cale Phillips will return to the team for the full 2026 campaign in the Trans Am Series Presented by Pirelli TA2 Pro/Am class, with his sights set firmly on the national championship.

Phillips enjoyed a strong 2025 season, demonstrating his speed and consistency across several events. His highlights included a second-place class finish at VIR (Virginia International Raceway) in the Pro/Am division, one of five podium results, and multiple top-ten results throughout the year. Phillips also led laps at Lime Rock Park after starting fifth and eventually finishing on the second step of the podium.

“I’m excited to return with Nitro Motorsports and go after the TA2 title in 2026,” explained a hungry Cale Phillips. “Last season showed me what’s possible, and this year I’m coming back stronger. I want to bring wins, podiums, and a championship home for the team. The goal is clear — fight for every point and leave nothing on the table.”

“Cale is a true racer and a driver that we expect to fight for the Pro/Am title in 2026,” expressed Nick Tucker, Co-Owner of Nitro Motorsports. “He stepped into a tough class, adapted quickly, and delivered results. Having him back this year strengthens the core of our TA2 program — and with the momentum he brings, I believe he’s got a real shot at the championship.”

With preseason preparations underway and development work ongoing at Nitro Motorsports’ shop, Phillips and the team are putting the final touches on the car and program that will support their championship push. Penske-level commitment to detail, combined with Phillips’s focus and experience from 2025, makes this 2026 effort one of the most anticipated TA2 campaigns in the paddock.

About Nitro Motorsports
Nitro Motorsports is a multi-platform professional racing organization competing in Club and National-level karting, the ARCA Menards Series, the Trans Am Series Presented by Pirelli, and Toyota GR Cup North America. With a proven foundation in driver development and technical excellence, Nitro Motorsports provides one of the most complete talent pipelines in North American motorsports.

For more information on Nitro Motorsports, please contact Nick Tucker via email HERE or visit them online at www.RaceNitro.com.

Greg Biffle was just days away from his 56th birthday when he died in a tragic plane crash in Statesville, North Carolina, which occurred on Thursday morning. Among the passengers were Biffle’s wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder, as well Craig Wadsworth, Dennis Dutton, and his son Jack Dutton.

‘The Biff’ is being remembered by the NASCAR community in an outpouring of tributes, but his impact went far beyond the race track.

Following Hurricane Helene, Biffle, who was a registered pilot, flew daring helicopter missions into the mountains of Western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee to help those stranded and deliver aid to those cut off from the rest of the world by the historic floods. He has aided in other relief efforts as well, including recently in Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa impacted the region.

In NASCAR, Biffle came from the Pacific Northwest, and his early achievements got the attention of NASCAR Hall of Famer Benny Parsons.

He arrived on the scene at the national level in the late 90s, and was named the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Rookie of the Year in 1998. The following year, he won nine of 25 Truck races in a win record that stood until Corey Heim toppled it this past year. Biffle was one of the first to congratulate Heim on the achievement. 

In 2000, Biffle became a Truck Series champion with five wins, beating Kurt Busch to the crown. The following year, he moved up to the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts (then Busch) Series where he also earned Rookie of the Year honors, while also winning five races. Just one year later, he was a champion there as well, defeating Jason Keller.

He went on to win 20 NOAPS races and 18 NCTS races in his career, and while he never became a champion at the Cup level, he had plenty of success at the top level of the sport too.

Greg Biffle celebrates first Cup win

Photo by: Autostock

Biffle made his Cup debut in 2022, driving for Jack Roush. But 2003 was his first full-time season, and it didn’t take him long to find Victory Lane.

In the 2003 Pepsi 400 at Daytona International Speedway, he started 30th, but was running second behind Dale Earnhardt Jr. in the closing laps of the summer classic. He fell back a few spots as he got put in the middle three-wide, but many of those around him still had to pit for fuel. This gave Biffle the lead with 20 laps to go, and he had a teammate in Matt Kenseth directly behind him. Kenseth eventually had to pit as well, while Biffle was able to join up with a group of cars at the back-end of the lead lap, and used the draft to save fuel and keep most of the field at bay. However, Bobby Labonte stayed with him until the final lap when he ran out of fuel as well. But not Biffle, who cruised to the finish line, over four seconds clear of his closest competition as he became a NASCAR Cup Series race winner.

Biffle quickly asserted himself as a top driver in the No. 16 machine, and in 2005, he nearly won the Cup Series title. After winning six races, he ended the year as the championship runner-up, just 35pts behind Tony Stewart. 

That year also featured Biffle’s most dominant Cup win when he led 219 of 334 laps to capture the checkered flag at Texas. There were a handful of tracks where Biffle really shined during his career, and Texas was just one of them. He had four wins at Michigan, three at Homestead, and two at Dover.

Victory lane: race winner Greg Biffle celebrates Southern 500 win

Photo by: Autostock

But none of those triumphs compare to winning one of NASCAR’s most grueling races in back-to-back years. Biffle won the 2005 Southern 500 at Darlington. He led 176 of 370 laps, but had to battle past Ryan Newman on a green-white-checkered restart with fresh tires to secure the victory.

The following year, he won the Southern 500 again in a similarly dominant showing, leading 170 of 367 laps. He held off a charging Jeff Gordon, and in doing so, he joined Gordon in exclusive club that also included Dale Earnhardt, Bobby Allison, David Pearson, Cale Yarborough, and Herb Thomas. They were the only drivers to have ever won the historic race in back-to-back years, and Biffle was the last driver to do it until Chase Briscoe went back-to-back in 2024 and 2025.

His career featured several iconic moments, including a famous duel with Mark Martin where he beat his teammate in a photo finish at Homestead-Miami Speedway. He also wasn’t afraid to get into it outside of the car. Just ask Jay Sauter, or Boris Said, or Jimmie Johnson, or Kevin Harvick…

Greg Biffle takes the checkered flag inches ahead of Mark Martin

Photo by: Kurt Dahlstrom

But while tempers flared often on the track, Biffle had everyone’s respect as one of the truest talents in the garage. He continued to be competitive into his 40s, winning his final race in the 2013 season at Michigan International Speedway. Biffle earned Ford its 1000th NASCAR win and at 43 years old, he earned his 19th and final Cup Series win by leading the final 31 laps of the race, crossing the finish line nearly three seconds clear of Kevin Harvick.

Later in his career, he returned to the Truck Series for his first start there in over 15 years. Despite that, he earned an impressive win while driving for Kyle Busch Motorsports in what would end up being his final win at any of the three national levels.

Greg Biffle

Photo by: Chris Graythen – Getty Images

Biffle briefly returned to the Cup Series in 2022, appearing in the Daytona 500 for the 15th time in his career. He ran five races that season, making his final start at Talladega for the NY Racing Team.

Biffle was inducted into the West Coast Stock Car Hall of Fame in 2022, and was named as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers in 2023.

Watch: Greg Biffle ecstatic after earning 15th Daytona 500 start

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– The Motorsport.com Team

Article has been updated to include statements from NASCAR and the families involved.

Former NASCAR driver and humanitarian Greg Biffle died in a plane crash in North Carolina on Thursday morning. He was 55-years-old.

Biffle was a 19-time race winner in the NASCAR Cup Series, the top division in NASCAR. He also won the NASCAR Busch Series title in 2002 and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series title in 2000. NASCAR released a statement following confirmation of Biffle’s death.

“Greg was more than a champion driver, he was a beloved member of the NASCAR community, a fierce competitor, and a friend to so many. His passion for racing, his integrity, and his commitment to fans and fellow competitors alike made a lasting impact on the sport.” NASCAR wrote. “On the track, Greg’s talent and tenacity earned him championships in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, as well as numerous wins and accolades in the NASCAR Cup Series. Beyond his racing career, he gave of himself for the betterment of our community. Most notably, Greg spent countless hours of his time helping the citizens of North Carolina during the disasters that followed Hurricane Helene. His tireless work saved lives.”

The families involved in the crash also released a statement Thursday night.

“We are devastated by the loss of our loved ones. This tragedy has left all of our families heartbroken beyond words.
Greg and Cristina were devoted parents and active philanthropists whose lives were centered around their young son Ryder and Greg’s daughter Emma (Emma, whose mother is Nicole Lunders.).
Emma was a wonderful human being with a kind soul who was loved by many people. Ryder was an active, curious and infinitely joyful child.
Dennis Dutton and his son Jack were deeply loved as well, and their loss is felt by all who knew them.
Craig Wadsworth was beloved by many in the NASCAR community and will be missed by those who knew him.
Each of them meant everything to us, and their absence leaves an immeasurable void in our lives.
We ask for privacy, compassion and understanding as we grieve and begin to process this unimaginable loss. We are grateful for the kindness and support that has been extended to our families during this incredibly difficult time. At this moment, our focus is on honoring their lives and supporting one another.”

Greg Biffle had become even better known for his efforts after his racing career ended. He was among the leaders in flying relief efforts to the Appalachian Mountains after Hurricane Helene made many roads within North Carolina impassable.  

In November 2024, Biffle was awarded the Myers Brothers Award by the National Motorsports Press Association for his efforts helping mountain communities in Western North Carolina.  

He was also coordinating relief efforts for Jamaica after the country was severely damaged by Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 hurricane that impacted the island with sustained winds of 185 mph. 

Biffle and his family were flying down to Sarasota, Florida to meet friend and YouTuber Garrett Mitchell, also known as Cleetus McFarland. The duo had met while flying relief missions to the Carolinas after Hurricane Helene and had grown to be friends, with Biffle mentoring McFarland as he made his ARCA Menard’s Series debut. 

Mitchell was the first to confirm that the family was onboard the plane that had crashed. 

Congressman Richard Hudson, a politician from North Carolina who knew the family, also weighed in on the tragic accident.