Former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle has taken an active role in providing aid to those impacted by Hurricane Helene. Recently, Biffle shared his experience of joining the relief efforts alongside NASCAR teams, while offering insight into the current situation in North Carolina.
Biffle, a champion in both the Truck and Xfinity Series, began his NASCAR journey in 1996, making his debut in the Busch Series (now Xfinity) at Rockingham Speedway. Over his 16-year career, he claimed 56 wins across NASCAR’s top three divisions. Now, with his racing days behind him, Biffle is focused on helping communities devastated by Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm that has caused widespread damage across several states. When the hurricane made landfall in North Carolina as a tropical storm, it left a trail of destruction, displacing many residents and leaving them in urgent need of help.
Biffle recently discussed his involvement in the relief efforts during an episode of *NASCAR Daily* with Shannon Spake. He explained how he first became aware of the dire situation through social media.
“I got a Facebook message about a family stranded up in the mountains at an Airbnb with young kids,” Biffle recalled. “As you know, people staying at Airbnb properties don’t usually have enough food to last for days or weeks. It quickly became apparent that they weren’t the only ones in trouble, and that really brought attention to the larger situation.”
As more information surfaced, Biffle realized that many people were in desperate need of assistance. He decided to take action and coordinate efforts to bring supplies and rescue stranded individuals. When asked how many trips it took to get help to those affected, Biffle explained the growing scale of the operation.
“I think there were two helicopters in the air when we first saw the Facebook post,” Biffle said. “By the next morning, there were probably 20 helicopters in the sky, and by the end of the day, the number had grown to about 30 or 35. That included helicopters from NASCAR teams—Hendrick and Gibbs had their machines up there helping out.”
The relief effort quickly expanded from its humble beginnings on social media. Biffle shared how donations and supplies began pouring in. “One of the hangars at Statesville airport was completely filled with supplies in just one day,” he noted.
As the NASCAR playoffs move forward, the racing community has shown solidarity in supporting those affected by Hurricane Helene. NASCAR teams and organizations have stepped up, providing resources and assistance to those in need during this challenging time.
In addition to Biffle’s personal efforts, one of NASCAR’s most iconic venues, Bristol Motor Speedway, also extended a helping hand. Just after hosting the final race of the Round of 16 in the NASCAR playoffs, Bristol opened its gates to evacuees fleeing from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. With the death toll from the storm continuing to rise, Bristol Motor Speedway has provided a safe haven for residents from the impacted areas.
The destruction caused by Hurricane Helene has left many people without homes, food, or basic supplies for survival. While recovery and rebuilding efforts are underway, facilities like Bristol Motor Speedway have proven to be invaluable. The track’s management shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) offering a warm welcome to those displaced by the storm.
“EVACUEES WELCOME! The Speedway’s Medallion campground is located off Hwy 394, just minutes off of Interstate 81,” the post read.
Since 6 PM on Friday, Bristol Motor Speedway has opened its Medallion campground free of charge to those seeking refuge from the hurricane. This gesture has been a source of relief for evacuees who are navigating the uncertainty and challenges brought on by the storm.
As the community rallies together, Greg Biffle’s involvement and the efforts of the NASCAR community highlight the profound impact that sports organizations and their members can have in times of crisis. The collaboration between NASCAR teams, tracks like Bristol, and individuals like Biffle demonstrates a powerful sense of unity and compassion, offering hope to those in need amid the chaos of Hurricane Helene.
Hendrick & Gibbs had their machines up in the air” – NASCAR’s Greg Biffle shares how he’s currently aiding Hurricane Helene relief
