After nearly five decades as the driving force behind RFK Racing‘s engine program, Edgar Aleman, often described as the RFK Racing engine mastermind, has announced his retirement. Aleman’s departure marks the end of an era for both himself and the organization, leaving a legacy built on innovation, mentorship, and championship success.
From Puerto Rican Drag Races to RFK Racing Legend
Edgar Aleman’s journey began in the late 1970s at a Puerto Rican drag race, where Jack Roush first noticed his mechanical insight and enthusiasm. That pivotal moment led Roush to offer Aleman his first role with the organization, making him the inaugural hire for the team. Over 47 years, Aleman’s skills and dedication transformed him into a central figure at RFK Racing, particularly recognized for his expertise as an engine tuner.
Aleman’s craftsmanship was instrumental in powering Mark Martin’s No. 60 Xfinity car to victory 39 times. These achievements played a crucial role in Martin’s foundation as a driver, leading to a total of 49 Xfinity Series wins and 40 victories in the Cup Series. The mutual respect between Aleman and Martin remains clear, with Martin publicly expressing his appreciation for Aleman’s impact.
“Edgar was the engine man on the 60 car the entire time I drove it. He was a fantastic friend and team member. Congratulations Edgar,”
– Mark Martin, five-time Cup Series runner-up.
Throughout his time with the team, Aleman’s influence extended beyond the race track. He took on mentoring roles, guiding younger mechanics, and serving as a role model for aspiring crew members. Eventually, he transitioned to an assembly mechanic position, continuing to contribute his passion and experience.
In recognition of Aleman’s nearly half-century of dedication, Jack Roush presented him with a custom helmet inscribed with his name, along with his venerable, well-used toolbox. This tribute served as a heartfelt send-off for a man regarded as a cornerstone of the team and a great within NASCAR‘s engine tuning community.
Mark Martin Reflects on His Own Retirement and Changing Priorities
Widely considered one of NASCAR’s greatest drivers, Mark Martin boasts an impressive record that includes five IROC championships, two Southern 500 triumphs, and a Coca-Cola 600 win. Although Martin exited racing’s top echelons in 2013, his passion for hands-on projects continues to fuel him today.
Since leaving the driver’s seat, Martin has developed a keen interest in building and designing motor coaches. This pursuit, he says, recalls the early years of his racing career, when drivers personally crafted their vehicles season after season. In a conversation with fellow driver Kenny Wallace, Martin shared his thoughts on finding a new purpose post-racing.
“After I retired, I didn’t really have any passion, and it took me a while to find some passion like I had about race cars. I don’t know,”
– Mark Martin.
“There’s something about these coaches with the big wheels. You know, my dad started a trucking company the year I was born. So, I was around trucks for… I think if the wheels were small, I probably wouldn’t care about them so much, but there’s something that draws me to them.”
– Mark Martin.
This new hobby connects Martin’s story with the mechanical passion long championed by Aleman and the broader crew at RFK Racing. In the world of NASCAR, both driving and building remain deeply ingrained in the culture, allowing talents like Martin and Aleman to transition, adapt, and continue influencing the sport in fresh ways.
Recently, Martin also engaged with NASCAR’s evolving playoff structures, voicing criticism and helping to drive ongoing discussion across the motorsports community. His candid approach maintains his place as an influential voice even in retirement, just as Aleman’s legacy continues through those he mentored and the standards he set.
As RFK Racing faces the challenge of replacing its longtime engine mastermind, the contributions of Edgar Aleman will resonate far beyond any single victory or title. His career, shaped by a chance encounter and fueled by unwavering passion, leaves a lasting impression on NASCAR’s history and its future generations of crew members and drivers.
Edgar was the engine man on the 60 car the entire time I drove it. He was a fantastic friend and team member. Congratulations Edgar 🏁 https://t.co/KZyGuT1yZN
— Mark Martin (@markmartin) November 12, 2025
