When times get tough, loved ones gather around for support. This was certainly true for Dave Moody, who, after 26 years in NASCAR, found himself backed by a legion of fans through some difficult days. Last weekend held some of the season’s most important moments, with the three main NASCAR series running their penultimate races. Excitement buzzed around the upcoming Cup Series championship in Phoenix, where Team Penske’s Ford drivers faced off against their competitors.
But Moody, a seasoned commentator for Motor Racing Network (MRN), had to miss the race for a far more important matter. A family emergency had pulled him away, and while he couldn’t be at the track, loyal fans flooded him with messages of sympathy. Moody, who became a fixture in NASCAR when he joined MRN in 1998 under Ken Squier’s guidance, first reported during Speedweeks and served as a garage reporter at the Daytona 500. Since then, his nearly 30-year dedication to the sport has provided fans with insightful interviews, analyses, and a deeper look into the NASCAR world. However, the 2024 Cup Series championship would prove significant for him for reasons beyond the racetrack.
Unfortunately, Moody’s mother passed away following a serious illness. During Phoenix race practice and qualifying, he shared that he’d be absent, saying, “Disappointed not to be at the track tonight, as I focus on my mother, who has had a significant health challenge back home in Vermont. Appreciate all the kind words and inquiries, but it’s time to hunker down with family.” Supportive messages poured in, with fans sending well-wishes. Sadly, just a day later, Moody posted, “Just a quick word to those who reached out with words of comfort and support in the last few days. Mom passed away peacefully earlier this evening.”
Known affectionately as “The Godfather,” Dave Moody has long charmed NASCAR fans. He also hosts SiriusXM Speedway, a popular three-hour show on SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. Recently, he found himself in the spotlight over a controversial interview with Jeffrey Kessler, an attorney representing Michael Jordan and others in a NASCAR lawsuit. Denny Hamlin alleged that Moody and his network edited parts of the interview to shape public perception. Earlier in the year, Moody also stirred up criticism when he called out what he saw as NASCAR’s favoritism toward Rick Hendrick.
