NASCAR fans packed Florence Motor Speedway on Saturday to witness Dale Earnhardt Jr. take to the track in the legendary No. 8 Budweiser car for the first time in over 15 years. For many, the night was about more than just racing—it was a nostalgic return to a beloved chapter in NASCAR history.
“For me, it’s just a family thing,” said Zach Wigington, emphasizing the generational bond many feel toward racing. Saturday nights at the track have long been a cherished tradition, and this weekend added a special twist with the return of Earnhardt in the iconic red paint scheme.
“I’m so excited—I haven’t seen Dale race the No. 8 Bud car since I was in high school,” Wigington shared. Other fans, like Chris Cowgill, echoed the sentiment. “It’s just great to see the Bud car out there,” he said. Jacob O’Neal, a regular racer at Florence, described Earnhardt’s appearance as the highlight of the night. “I came to watch my friends race, but having Dale Jr. here is just the cherry on top,” he said.
Earnhardt last drove the No. 8 Budweiser car in 2007, making his return all the more thrilling. “A lot of folks came out wearing their old Bud gear. The fans really supported it,” he said. Starting in 41st, Earnhardt worked his way up to second place before a fuel pump issue forced him out with 31 laps to go.
Despite finishing 28th, Earnhardt enjoyed revisiting the track, where he frequently raced in the mid-1990s. Reflecting on the experience, he expressed optimism about the Bud car’s future. “If I have anything to do with it, fans will see that car again,” he promised.
As the night concluded, Wigington had one piece of advice: “If you’ve never been to a race, check it out—it’s worth it.”
