Bubba Wallace shared a short but powerful message that has caught attention across NASCAR. His words, “RIP my brother,” were posted after a tragic event involving someone close to him. The message was personal, filled with emotion, and left many wondering who he was talking about. As more people saw the post, it became clear this was not just a passing comment. It marked the loss of someone who had made a real difference in Bubba Wallace’s life and career.
Key Highlights
- Bubba Wallace shared his sorrow on social media over Shigeaki Hattori’s death.
- Wallace emphasized his genuine friendship and connection with Hattori.
- The tribute highlighted Hattori’s kindness and support during race weekends.
- Wallace’s message conveyed a broader sense of loss in the NASCAR community.
- Hattori’s respected character and impact were central to Wallace’s tribute.
The Accident and Shigeaki Hattori’s Death
The tragic passing of Shigeaki Hattori has left a somber cloud over the NASCAR community. An accomplished former IndyCar driver and influential NASCAR Truck Series owner, Hattori’s life tragically ended in a two-car accident in North Carolina on Saturday morning.
His sudden death has sent waves of grief and disbelief through the motorsport world, creating an atmosphere of sadness and mourning.
Hattori, originally from Japan, was a beloved figure known for his dedication and passion for racing. His contributions to the sport have left a lasting impact, and his absence will be profoundly felt by those who knew him personally and professionally.
The circumstances of the accident remain under investigation, and details are being gathered to provide a clearer understanding of the event. As the community grapples with this loss, tributes pour in, honoring Hattori’s legacy and the indelible mark he left on the sport.
Hattori Racing Enterprises Statement
Hattori Racing Enterprises (HRE) expressed profound grief in their official statement confirming the tragic death of Shigeaki “Shige” Hattori.
HRE conveyed their heartbreak, announcing that Hattori passed away on Saturday, April 5, in Huntersville, N.C., following a motor vehicle accident.
Remembering Shige’s relentless drive and competitive spirit, they highlighted his passion for team ownership through HRE and Hattori Motorsports, which became his life’s work.
“We are heartbroken to confirm that Shigeaki ‘Shige’ Hattori was pronounced deceased on the morning of Saturday, April 5, in Huntersville, N.C., following a motor vehicle accident.”
“Shige was known for his relentless drive, focus and competitive spirit. Team ownership through HRE and Hattori Motorsports had become both his passion and his life’s work. He had a unique gift to constantly inject a light-hearted attitude and one-of-a-kind sense of humor into his race teams that will never be forgotten. We’ll miss you dearly. Farewell, Shige.” – Hattori Racing Enterprises
Shige’s unique ability to infuse a light-hearted attitude and humor into his teams was cherished and will be dearly missed.
The statement concluded with a heartfelt farewell, emphasizing the indelible impact of his legacy.
NASCAR Statement
With the racing community still coming to terms with the profound loss, NASCAR also shared its sorrow over the passing of Shigeaki Hattori. The organization expressed deep sadness, highlighting Hattori’s passion and success within the sport.
“Shigeaki Hattori was a passionate racer and highly successful team owner, but beyond all his team’s statistics — which includes a NASCAR Truck Series championship — Shige was a genuine, beloved member of the garage who worked tirelessly to lift our sport and his people.”
“We are deeply saddened by his tragic passing. NASCAR extends its thoughts and prayers to his family and many friends.” – NASCAR
NASCAR recognized him not just for his remarkable achievements, such as leading a team to a NASCAR Truck Series championship, but also for his genuine spirit and dedication. In their heartfelt statement, NASCAR extended thoughts and prayers to Hattori’s family and friends, acknowledging the void his departure leaves in the garage community.
Hattori was more than his accolades; he was a tireless advocate for the sport. His presence will be profoundly missed, but his legacy continues to inspire those who knew him.
Bubba Wallace’s Tribute
Grieving the loss, Bubba Wallace expressed his sorrow over the tragic passing of Shigeaki Hattori, a respected figure in the NASCAR community.
Wallace, a veteran NASCAR Cup Series driver, shared his emotions on X, formerly known as Twitter, reflecting on the bond he shared with Hattori.
“Damn this hurts, Shige was always going out of his way to say hello at any point in the weekend and always asking if I was ready to race for him again. We lost a good one. RIP my brother!” he wrote.
Damn this hurts, Shige was always going out of his way to say hello at any point in the weekend and always asking if I was ready to race for him again. We lost a good one. RIP my brother! https://t.co/p9veghMy2T
— Bubba Wallace (@BubbaWallace) April 7, 2025
- Personal Connection: Wallace’s message emphasizes a genuine friendship with Hattori.
- Community Loss: The tribute reflects a broader sense of loss within the NASCAR community.
- Respect for Hattori: Wallace’s words convey deep respect for Hattori’s character.
“Sorry for your loss brother 😔.”
“Ugh this is awful only 61 so sad.”
“RIP Shige!” – fans reaction
News in Brief: Bubba Wallace mourns Shigeaki Hattori
The NASCAR community is left mourning the loss of Shigeaki Hattori, whose tragic death has cast a shadow over the sport. Team owner and respected figure, Hattori’s absence will be deeply felt by many, including Bubba Wallace, who expressed profound sorrow at the news.
The heartfelt statements from Hattori Racing Enterprises and NASCAR highlight the substantial impact Hattori had on the racing world. As the community grapples with this loss, they honor his legacy and contributions to the sport.
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