Rick Hendrick, the leader of Hendrick Motorsports and a cornerstone in the world of NASCAR, has addressed public speculation over his recent sparing presence at race tracks, delivering a direct Rick Hendrick health update. This comes as the team heads into a crucial phase, with Hendrick maintaining an active role in team operations—albeit from a greater distance than in past years.
Longtime NASCAR Figure Discusses Reduced Presence and Health
In recent seasons, those within the motorsports community and avid fans alike have noted Rick Hendrick, now 76, is far less frequently seen on pit road and in victory celebrations. Despite being less visible, Hendrick has not stepped away from his duties; he remains actively involved, often appearing for major events like the Daytona 500 and Coca-Cola 600 and keeping close tabs on key playoff races. This shift in attendance prompted speculation and growing conversation about his well-being.
Recently, Hendrick addressed these concerns candidly in a conversation with Cup Scenes, employing his signature good humor. He emphasized how, even while not physically present, he is intertwined with each team win.
“I am in constant communication with Jeff Andrews and Jeff Gordon,”
– Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
He shared a story that underlined his ongoing tradition and relationship with Jeff Gordon.
“I have to remind Jeff Gordon, ‘Don’t forget me now. I want to talk to the driver when we win.’ One race he was standing in Victory Lane but never handed the phone off, so I wouldn’t speak to him for a week. I said, ‘I’m not talking to you anymore.’”
– Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
This lighthearted exchange highlighted Hendrick’s longstanding custom: he makes a personal phone call to Victory Lane whenever his drivers claim a win, participating remotely in celebrations if necessary. An example of this happened when Kyle Larson took the checkered flag at Las Vegas in 2024. Jeff Gordon was witnessed using the team radio and a phone—making sure the team principal could share his congratulations firsthand.
Balancing Health, Business, and Racing Commitments
Explaining his limited appearances, Hendrick noted his executive responsibilities extend beyond the race team; he also runs the expansive Hendrick Automotive Group, overseeing more than 130 dealerships in 14 states. Health has also played a factor recently, as he revealed he had undergone a leg operation earlier in the year. Despite these challenges, he assured fans and those following NASCAR that his hand remains firmly on the organization’s pulse.
“I think my job is during the week, when the crew chiefs are back here, knowing what they need. I’m trying to run 100 dealerships, and I’ve also had an operation on my leg, but I do have the ability to listen to every guy and to monitor what’s going on.”
– Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
His multitasking is not new: Hendrick previously overcame significant health hurdles, most notably a bout with leukemia in the 1990s. This experience, according to those close to him, fundamentally shaped his approach to leadership and life. Now, he moves between his role as a business magnate and team boss, while offering strong encouragement from behind the scenes.
“And I can be the Monday morning quarterback, asking, ‘Why did you do this? Why did you do that?’ But I’m very confident in the people we have. I miss going every weekend, but there are a lot of other things I have to handle. No matter where I am, I’m in constant contact with the guys.”
– Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
Continued Influence Within Hendrick Motorsports
Although he is away from the track more often, the organization that bears his name shows no sign of slowing down. The day-to-day management of Hendrick Motorsports falls to Jeff Andrews, President and General Manager, and Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman. They lead the operation while Hendrick remains closely connected, providing oversight and counsel rooted in decades of experience.
The results speak for themselves: under their stewardship, HMS leads the NASCAR field in Cup Series wins and championships. Since the introduction of the Next Gen car in 2022, Hendrick Motorsports has continued to set the standard, consistently logging victories and competing at a championship level.
“So hopefully you’ll see me more next year. But I kind of like my role, I can watch, listen, and critique. No, I’m just kidding. Really, those guys know what to do. Jeff and I are there from the beginning to the end of the race, except for handing the phone to the driver; he doesn’t do that part as well.”
– Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
The lighthearted remarks about the phone tradition speak to the mutual respect and camaraderie within the team. Hendrick and Gordon have a relationship spanning over thirty years, dating back to Gordon’s start as a rookie driver. Over time, that bond turned into a unique management partnership—one that emphasizes seamless communication and confidence in the leadership team.
Title Hopes High as Phoenix Approaches
This season, Hendrick’s absence from race weekends hasn’t slowed the drive or results for his organization. Both William Byron and Kyle Larson anchor Hendrick Motorsports’ hopes heading into the season finale at Phoenix Raceway, with title number fifteen on the line. The team has showcased resilience and depth through the playoffs, with supporting staff ensuring that no resource or tool is lacking for either championship contender.
Jeff Gordon, speaking to Claire B. Lang, praised the atmosphere within the group, attributing a key part of the operation’s success to Hendrick’s ethos and unwavering support.
“The resources or whatever you need are here for you. That is what Rick has always offered, and it’s been amazing. Our guys will tell you. There’s nothing that they are lacking from that side of things.”
– Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman
Kyle Larson, fresh from a strong showing at Martinsville, echoed similar sentiments looking ahead to Phoenix, emphasizing the unity and steady hand guiding the organization.
“Glad we can give Mr. H an opportunity next week and hopefully one of us can win it. I’m proud of everybody at HMS, I feel like we’ve been just progressing so much throughout the playoffs and to put two cars in the championship 4 is awesome. Thanks everybody there, thanks Chevrolet…”
– Kyle Larson, Driver
Byron, who has reached the Championship 4 for a third straight year after a tight battle with Blaney, and Larson, aiming for his second championship, both credit strong backing and a carefully maintained team environment for their continued success. The focus remains sharp, embracing the nonstop guidance that Hendrick and Gordon provide. As Phoenix draws near, the organization stands poised—operations are tight, the cars are competitive, and the championship drive is intense.
Looking Ahead: Significance and Future Outlook
Rick Hendrick’s recent remarks clarify that while his physical attendance at NASCAR events is limited for now, his influence remains powerful and direct. His commitment to Hendrick Motorsports, unwavering support for key people like Jeff Andrews and Jeff Gordon, and his leadership legacy ensure the team continues to operate at the highest level in American motorsports.
The anticipation of Hendrick possibly returning to a more active trackside role signals hope for fans and competitors alike. His openness about health challenges and work-life balancing paint a clear picture of perseverance and adaptability. As the NASCAR Cup Series hurtles toward its finale in Phoenix, the team—anchored by Byron and Larson—stands ready, further motivated by Hendrick’s continued involvement and determined to add to his extraordinary legacy. For NASCAR followers, the Rick Hendrick health update not only reassures but promises renewed energy as the sport’s most successful owner continues to navigate both recovery and competition.
