Denny Hamlin reacts to tragedy as the racing world mourns the loss of NASCAR icon Greg Biffle and his family, who died in a business jet accident on December 18 near Statesville, North Carolina. The crash claimed the lives of Biffle, his wife Cristina, their daughter Emma (14), and son Ryder (7), along with Craig Wadsworth, Dennis Dutton, and Jack Dutton.
Greg Biffle, a celebrated figure in motorsports, was recognized not only for his accomplishments on the track but also for his compassion off it. His team frequently flew rescue and supply missions, particularly after Hurricane Helene, assisting civilians isolated in northeast Tennessee, western North Carolina, and southwest Virginia.
Denny Hamlin and Racing Figures Express Sorrow
Denny Hamlin, a prominent NASCAR Cup Series driver, shared his heartfelt sentiments in light of the tragic loss, stating,
“Today the motorsports world lost one of its fiercest competitors and kindest souls. Greg Biffle was a champion on the track and a humanitarian off it, whose impact reached far beyond racing.”
— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
“We also mourn the loss of his wife Cristina and children Emma & Ryder, along with Craig Wadsworth, Dennis Dutton, and his son Jack. My heart is with all their families and loved ones.”
— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
Greg Biffle, who last competed in the ARCA Menards Series West with Sigma Performance Services, had a storied career, boasting championship titles in both the NASCAR Busch Series (now the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series) and the Truck Series. Originally from Vancouver, Washington, Biffle was selected in 2023 as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers, underscoring his remarkable legacy.
Greg Biffle’s Commitment to Helping Others Remembered
Beyond racing accomplishments, those close to the Biffle family recall their relentless dedication to humanitarian work. U.S. Congressman Richard Lane Hudson released a statement reflecting on their character:
“They were friends who lived their lives focused on helping others. Greg was a great NASCAR champion who thrilled millions of fans. But he was an extraordinary person as well, and will be remembered for his service to others as much as for his fearlessness on the track.”
— Richard Lane Hudson, U.S. Congressman
“The Biffles flew hundreds of rescue missions in western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene. The last time I spoke with Cristina (Biffle’s wife), just a couple of weeks ago, she reached out to ask how she could help with relief efforts in Jamaica. That’s who the Biffles were,” he added.
— Richard Lane Hudson, U.S. Congressman
Authorities are investigating the events leading up to the crash, which occurred as the aircraft attempted to return to the Statesville airport amid cloudy and drizzly conditions. Biffle was 55 years old when he died, and the loss is being felt both within racing circles and the broader community he helped.
Racing Community Reflects and Honors Biffle’s Legacy
Jeff Gordon, former on-track rival and current Vice Chairman of Hendrick Motorsports, joined those expressing deep sadness, writing:
“Devastating news. I had such tremendous respect for Greg as a driver, and we shared countless tough battles on the track. Like so many others, I was inspired by his tireless relief work during Hurricane Helene. My heart goes out to the Biffle family and everyone hurting.”
— Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman of Hendrick Motorsports
Throughout a NASCAR career spanning 15 years and 515 starts—mostly with Roush Fenway Racing—Biffle captured 19 race victories and became known for his competitive spirit and commitment to helping others. Many remember him as both an extraordinary driver and a humanitarian whose deeds reached far beyond the racetrack.
As the investigation continues, the tragedy has united competitors, fans, and the larger NASCAR family in remembrance of Greg Biffle, his loved ones, and their lasting contributions to motorsports and humanitarian causes.
I am devastated by the loss of Greg, Cristina, and their children, and my heart is with all who loved them.
They were friends who lived their lives focused on helping others. Greg was a great NASCAR champion who thrilled millions of fans. But he was an extraordinary person as…
— Rep. Richard Hudson (@RepRichHudson) December 18, 2025
Devastating news. I had such tremendous respect for Greg as a driver, and we shared countless tough battles on the track. Like so many others, I was inspired by his tireless relief work during Hurricane Helene. My heart goes out to the Biffle family and everyone hurting. pic.twitter.com/TN9vbqjpZ4
— Jeff Gordon (@JeffGordonWeb) December 18, 2025
