Rick Hendrick NASCAR legacy will take center stage alongside Joe Gibbs Racing during the Championship 4 in Phoenix, as both organizations remain the last teams vying for the ultimate title. These two powerhouse teams, led by Hendrick and Gibbs, not only embody fierce competition but also share a long-standing relationship built on respect and collaboration.
The roots of Hendrick and Gibbs’ connection stretch nearly three decades, beginning when Joe Gibbs decided to swap NFL playbooks for pit strategies. As Gibbs’ sons, J.D. and Coy, embraced their own racing ambitions, the former Washington Commanders coach sought out Rick Hendrick, who was already deeply entrenched in NASCAR with significant success. Their bond was immediate, further cemented by Hendrick’s enthusiasm for Gibbs’ football triumphs, notably his three Super Bowl wins with the Commanders.
Early Partnerships Pave the Way for NASCAR Dominance
When Gibbs stepped into the realm of motorsports, he leaned on Hendrick’s experience to successfully launch Joe Gibbs Racing in 1992. At this critical juncture, Hendrick offered more than advice; he sent his general manager, Jimmy Johnson, to guide Gibbs through the logistical and business intricacies of the sport. Initially, Joe Gibbs Racing fielded Chevrolets powered by engines leased from Hendrick Motorsports, laying the groundwork for both teams’ dynastic futures. Hendrick would eventually secure 14 Cup Series championships, with Gibbs capturing five.
Recalling those formative days, Joe Gibbs explained,
It was really, really important for us. When I started thinking about trying, you got to remember, I was a football coach. I didn’t have anything. So, when both boys, J.D. and Coy, we talked about getting in racing… Everybody referred me to Rick. Thank goodness he was a Big Red Skins fan.
Joe Gibbs, Team Owner.
He added,
Got him to a football game… Rick helped us a lot. He let Jimmie Johnson, his general manager at that time, kind of go with me to a lot of meetings. He just helped and gave advice. Then we started off originally leasing motors and everything from Rick. It was a huge deal for us, for us to be able to get off the ground. Rick played a huge role in that. I just really appreciate that.
Joe Gibbs, Team Owner.
Shared Experiences and Laughter Alongside Intense Competition
The early friendship between Rick Hendrick and Joe Gibbs was marked by lighthearted moments, such as the now legendary “football game incident.” When asked about this memorable event, Hendrick first joked,
Oh, yeah. Biggest mistake I made in racing was helping Joe Gibbs (smiling),
Rick Hendrick, Team Owner.
He recounted the experience,
It was cold, and I got off the tram. I started toward the field, and the bottom came off of my boot. I had one of these, I guess, mountain boots I hadn’t had on in a while. So the bottom came off. I go down on the field, and I’m standing in water. It’s freezing and sleeting, and I got no shoes on. I mean, I got the bottoms come off both of my boots.
Rick Hendrick, Team Owner.
Reflecting on his predicament, Hendrick shared,
I said, Man, all those bodyguards around you, if I walked up to you, I probably would have been put in jail.
Rick Hendrick, Team Owner. Gibbs later told Hendrick he should have simply asked for help.
Enduring Support Through Triumphs and Tragedy
The friendship between Hendrick and Gibbs extends beyond racetracks and championship celebrations, rooted in shared hardships and unwavering support. Both men have endured profound loss—Hendrick suffered the loss of his son, while Gibbs experienced the pain of losing both of his sons, J.D. and Coy. Throughout their journeys, their faith and mutual respect have remained steadfast, forming the emotional backbone of their organizations.
Regarding his admiration for Gibbs, Hendrick said,
There’s nobody I respect any more than I do Joe Gibbs and the great organization he’s put together,
Rick Hendrick, Team Owner.
He continued,
I mean, I admire the man for his strength, what he’s gone through.
Rick Hendrick, Team Owner.
A Race for History—and Friendship—at Phoenix
As the Cup championship unfolds in Phoenix, the fierce rivalry between Joe Gibbs Racing and Hendrick Motorsports promises drama and excitement on track, but also demonstrates the integrity and respect that have shaped the sport. Once the checkered flag waves and helmets are removed, Hendrick and Gibbs remain friends, their shared history setting an example for NASCAR’s present and future leaders.
Their enduring partnership and friendly rivalry not only reflect their mutual drive for excellence, but also define what it means to leave a lasting legacy in NASCAR. With organizations like the Commanders and teams forged by both men’s vision continuing to inspire, the impact of Rick Hendrick and his NASCAR legacy will be felt for generations to come.
