Dale Earnhardt Jr. issued a pointed Dale Earnhardt Jr NASCAR warning this week to leaders at Martinsville Speedway, cautioning them about changes coming to the track‘s iconic trophy. The news comes as the long-standing manufacturer of the Martinsville clock trophy is preparing to shut down, raising concerns about the future of one of NASCAR’s most storied prizes.
Longstanding Trophy Tradition Faces Uncertain Future
Martinsville Speedway, located in Ridgeway, Virginia, is celebrated for its rich history in motorsports, operating since 1947 as a 0.526-mile short oval and hosting many major NASCAR events for more than five decades. The track, under the stewardship of president Clay Campbell and owned by NASCAR, is well known for awarding winners with a remarkable grandfather clock trophy, a tradition that sets it apart in the racing world. This clock, which chimes every quarter hour and stands tall, has become synonymous with triumph at Martinsville and is highly coveted by drivers.
This year, uncertainty surrounds that tradition. According to recent reports, Howard Miller, the Zeeland-based company that has produced the Martinsville clock trophy, will cease operations. Howard Miller was founded in 1926 by Howard C. Miller, the son of the renowned West Michigan furniture maker Herman Miller. The closing of the company marks the end of an era for both Zeeland and the greater NASCAR community.
Community Responds to Factory Closure
The shutdown of Howard Miller resonates deeply in Zeeland, prompting local leaders to reflect on the loss.
“It’s sad. From the standpoint of Howard Miller, certainly, it’s iconic for the city of Zeeland,”
—Tim Klunder, City Manager
“Just overall, it’s a sad day in the community.”
—Tim Klunder, City Manager
The company also shared sentiments honoring its decades-long legacy in manufacturing and furniture craftsmanship, acknowledging the employees who contributed to its success. Howard Miller employees are set to receive severance packages and job placement assistance as the closure takes effect. Hekman Furniture Co., another enterprise owned by Howard Miller, is also scheduled to shut down. The company statement addressed the transition with appreciation for its workforce and partners.
“We are deeply grateful to our talented team, our committed distributors and our loyal customers who have supported us throughout the years,”
—Miller, Company Representative
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Issues Direct Message to NASCAR
Outspoken NASCAR Hall of Famer and JR Motorsports owner Dale Earnhardt Jr. reacted strongly to news of the manufacturing change. Concerned about the continuity of the trophy’s legacy, Earnhardt Jr. implored those responsible for finding a replacement manufacturer not to deviate from the iconic design or reputation of the Martinsville trophy.
“Whomever makes the next version better make them exactly like the previous versions. Don’t get cute and f— this up,”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR Hall of Famer
The sentiment echoed by Earnhardt Jr. is shared by many fans and competitors, as the clock has become a symbol of excellence unique to Martinsville Speedway’s rich racing heritage. Any significant alteration to its design or quality could risk diminishing its significance for future race winners, some of whom—like Justin Allgaier and previous victors—consider the clock a highlight of their racing careers.
What Comes Next for the Martinsville Clock?
As the search begins for a new company to continue producing the legendary clock, those connected to NASCAR and Martinsville Speedway will be watching closely. With the emotional statement from Dale Earnhardt Jr., and recognition of Howard Miller’s remarkable history in the industry, expectations are high for continuity and honoring tradition. Track leadership, including Clay Campbell, must now balance maintaining the trophy’s iconic status with adapting to unforeseen changes in manufacturing. The next steps from NASCAR will likely determine whether the cherished Martinsville clock remains a hallowed prize or risks being changed in the eyes of drivers and fans alike.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Dale Earnhardt Jr. a billionaire?
A. By 2025, Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s net worth is around $300 million. His wealth comes from being a successful NASCAR driver and now a broadcaster. He continues to earn through endorsements, owning a team, and various partnerships, which increase his impact in the industry.
Q. Who is the richest guy in NASCAR? Dale Earnhardt Jr. is the richest guy in NASCAR with an estimated net worth of $300 million.
A. Who holds the highest wealth in NASCAR?
Q. Did Dale Earnhardt Jr. retire?
A. After retiring from full-time NASCAR driving, he began working as a color commentator for NASCAR on NBC in 2018. When his NBC contract ended after the 2023 season, he moved to Amazon Prime Video and TNT Sports. This change was part of NASCAR’s new TV contract starting in 2025.
