Legendary NASCAR journalist Al Pearce is being remembered across the racing world following his passing at the age of 82.
Pearce began his motorsports journalism career 52 years ago, covering NASCAR for the Daily Press and Times-Herald. He reported on 56 straight Daytona 500s over the years.
A Vietnam War veteran, Pearce also contributed to Autoweek, authored 13 racing books, and was inducted into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame.
The press box at Langley Speedway has long borne his name in recognition of his deep ties to the track. In a heartfelt message on X, Langley Speedway shared: “We’re deeply saddened by the loss of legendary motorsports writer Al Pearce. For over five decades, he was a constant presence at Langley, reporting for both local and national outlets. Though he covered racing on a global scale, we were privileged to be his home track. In 2010, we named our media center after him in appreciation of his dedication to chronicling our history. Thank you, Al—you’ll always be part of the Langley Speedway family.”
Following the news of his death, tributes poured in on social media from fans, drivers, and fellow journalists.
Denny Hamlin posted, “Thank you Al for your service to our country and our sport. May you rest in peace.”
Dover Motor Speedway also paid tribute, noting that Pearce was already a motorsports legend when he covered his first NASCAR event there in 1969.
Other notable figures such as Mike Joy, Ryan McGee, and Bob Pockrass also shared their respects online.
