Crew Chief reflects on his emotional Daytona 500 victory after years of dedication and hard work. Tony Gibson, a Daytona Beach native, had one dream—to win at his hometown track. In 2017, that dream became reality when Kurt Busch crossed the finish line first in the Daytona 500. The victory meant more than just a trophy. It was a tribute to Gibson’s parents, who fueled his racing passion. His journey, filled with unforgettable moments, continues to inspire.
Key Highlights
- The 2017 Daytona 500 victory marked a career peak for retired crew chief Tony Gibson.
- Gibson’s win was especially meaningful as he is a Daytona Beach native.
- The victory served as a tribute to Gibson’s parents who supported his racing passion.
- Tony Gibson’s dedication and perseverance over 30 years culminated in this significant achievement.
- Gibson’s emotional response highlighted the personal and professional impact of the Daytona 500 win.
Importance of Winning the Daytona 500
Winning the Daytona 500 is the pinnacle of excitement and achievement in NASCAR, a thrilling spectacle that leaves fans and drivers on the edge of their seats, hearts pounding with anticipation.
It is a race where legends are made and dreams find fruition. Even the great Dale Earnhardt Sr. only tasted its glory once, proving how elusive victory can be. The race stands as an emblem of excellence, a test of skill, strategy, and sheer nerve.
“Twenty years of trying, twenty years of frustration! Dale Earnhardt will come to the caution flag to win the Daytona 500! Finally!” – (Mike Joy)
For Kurt Busch, his 2017 win marked an unforgettable moment, a career highlight that shone like a lighthouse amid the challenges of motorsport.
As Kyle Larson’s fuel tank sputtered empty on the final lap, Busch seized his chance, crossing the finish line to thunderous applause. This victory was not just another win; it was a historic day etched into the records of Stewart-Haas Racing, celebrated by fans and the team.
Tony Gibson’s Emotional Daytona 500 Victory
Though Tony Gibson had tasted success before, nothing compared to the whirlwind of emotions that swept over him during the 2017 Daytona 500. As a native of Daytona Beach, winning this prestigious race marked a high point in his career, even after working with legends like Jeff Gordon and Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Gibson, in a heartfelt exchange on the Dale Jr. Download, expressed just how much this win meant to him. The victory wasn’t just for him; it was a tribute to his parents, who had tirelessly fueled his racing dreams.
“My entire life to be in that position to win that race. That’s it. That’s what you dream about. All the struggles you go through to get that done with my mom my dad. All my friends at your home track. And you know well as anybody to win that race is extremely hard. Everything has to go perfect. After 30+ years. I finally got it done. I looked at Rodney Childers and I said, I did it. Like I did it, man.” – (Gibson)
“This is where I grew up. I was born in Halifax Hospital across the street. My mom retired from here. My dad raced here all his life. To come here and do this is amazing. I had two other brothers who raced. Dad had to work night and day and everything he had to make sure we could race and have fun. So my mom and dad are the ones I thought about the very first thing (after Sunday’s win).” – (Gibson)
Tony Gibson still gets emotional thinking about how much the ’17 Daytona 500 victory meant to him. 🏁🥹
His episode of the @DaleJr Download is out right now! ⬇️
Apple: https://t.co/zn4ZacBP87
Spotify: https://t.co/6cK6ZQJ5qw
YouTube: https://t.co/G8PlwZVtnA pic.twitter.com/89AOsbCb77— Dirty Mo Media (@DirtyMoMedia) March 19, 2025
Stewart-Haas Racing owner Tony Stewart humorously noted Gibson’s reaction as “comatose” from the sheer excitement, highlighting the emotional weight of the moment.
“He (Gibson) was comatose. He doesn’t move. He put his head back. Did he pass out? I had to shake him a bit. He just sat there the whole last lap and when I saw the door open, I started jumping because I knew what was coming. He just never flinched until it was over. He just laid his head back like he was getting a suntan.” – (Stewart)
Kurt Busch’s NASCAR Career and the 2022 Concussion
Kurt Busch, a name synonymous with speed and thrills, carved an unforgettable path in NASCAR, leaving fans awestruck with his daring tactics and fierce resolve. His crowning moment came with a stunning Daytona 500 victory in 2017, the only time he conquered the Great American Race, leaving an indelible mark on motorsport history.
Yet, in 2022, his career hit a speed bump. During qualifying at Pocono, Busch experienced a crash that impacted more than just his car. The accident resulted in vestibular issues, throwing his balance and coordination off course.
Despite months of determined rehabilitation, the seasoned driver made the tough decision to step away from full-time racing, a move akin to retiring a prized race car.
Nevertheless, his passion for racing endured, as he shifted gears to mentor young talents at 23XI Racing, spreading his knowledge like a seasoned pit crew chief sharing secrets of the track.
Kurt Busch’s Racing Comeback at the Race of Champions
In a stunning twist of fate, the roar of engines and the thrill of competition called Kurt Busch back to the racetrack in 2024 for the exhilarating Race of Champions! Racing against the world’s elite drivers, Busch represented Team USA with resolve and flair.
“Race car drivers always push the limits to be the best and drive to win. That is what I have strived for my whole career and to receive another invite from Race of Champions is a chance to go up against the best of the best from around the world. What an honor. Thank you RoC. Go Team USA.” – (Busch)
Though his comeback ended in the opening round, it was a powerful reflection of his resilience and racing spirit. He was physically fit, but perhaps just a touch rusty after his hiatus.
- The Competitors: Battling against high-calibre racers from across the globe, Busch faced a formidable challenge.
- The Outcome: While Sebastien Loeb claimed victory, Busch’s performance signalled his potential to thrive again.
- The Comeback: After his injury, this event marked a notable step in his return to racing.
Will Kurt Busch Ever Return to NASCAR?
Isn’t it exciting to think about the possibility of Kurt Busch returning to NASCAR? This seasoned racer, who now serves as a mentor at 23XI Racing, still has the racing community buzzing with anticipation.
With the team achieving a monumental feat by clinching the regular-season championship in 2024, the atmosphere is ripe for a thrilling comeback. Imagine the roar of the crowd at the 2026 Daytona 500, where whispers suggest a potential one-off return for Busch.
Fans, with bated breath, dream of seeing him zooming past the finish line, possibly battling it out with his brother, Kyle.
The big question lingers in the air, tantalizingly close: Will Kurt Busch make a NASCAR comeback? His return could introduce a fresh wave of excitement and nostalgia into the sport.
News in Brief: Crew Chief Reflects on His Emotional Daytona 500 Victory
As Tony Gibson looks back on his incredible Daytona 500 win, a sense of pride fills the air like the roar of powerful engines. After three decades of dedication, his victory wasn’t just a checkered flag; it was a heartfelt achievement.
Meanwhile, Kurt Busch, with his legendary career and brave comeback, keeps fans on the edge of their seats. Will he zoom back into NASCAR? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure—racing thrills never tire.
ALSO READ: NASCAR Adjusts Open Exemption Rule After Daytona 500 Controversy Sparks Debate
