NASCAR Cup Series star Greg Biffle lost his life on Thursday morning after a plane crash in Statesville, North Carolina. The incident, which occurred at Statesville Regional Airport, claimed the lives of Biffle, his family members, and others onboard, sending shockwaves through the motorsports community.
Details Surrounding the Tragic Crash
Officials from Statesville Regional Airport confirmed that the crash took place around 10:15 am. The Cessna C550, owned by Greg Biffle, went down approximately forty-five minutes north of Charlotte. Biffle’s wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder were also aboard the aircraft. Motorsport personality Garrett Mitchell, also known as Cleetus McFarland, confirmed the devastating news on Thursday afternoon. Mitchell shared his heartbreak with the public, stating:
“Unfortunately, I can confirm Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder were on that plane … because they were on their way to spend the afternoon with us,”
Garrett Mitchell posted to Facebook at 1:25 pm Thursday.
“We are devastated. I’m so sorry to share this.”
– Garrett Mitchell, motorsports personality
Former NASCAR driver Kenny Wallace also revealed that his former motorcoach driver, Craig Wadsworth, was among those killed in the crash. The crash has left a community of fans, friends, and fellow competitors in mourning.
Greg Biffle’s Racing Legacy and Community Impact
Greg Biffle had an illustrious career, claiming championships in both the NASCAR Xfinity Series and the Craftsman Truck Series. He became a household name by winning nineteen NASCAR Cup Series races, with his career-best season in 2005, securing six victories and finishing second in the point standings behind Tony Stewart. Biffle’s contributions to auto racing were recognized in 2023 when he was named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers.
Biffle, originally from Vancouver, Washington, last competed full-time in the premier series in 2016, racing for RFK Racing, previously known as Roush-Fenway Racing. Beyond the Cup Series, Biffle kept racing at venues like Stafford Speedway, participating in events such as the inaugural SRX Series race in June 2021, where he finished second to Doug Coby. Biffle returned to Stafford for the New England 900 events hosted by Cleetus McFarland, placing fourteenth in July 2024 and securing a second-place finish in the following year’s race, coming in behind Ryan Preece.
Supporting North Carolina During Crisis
Following Hurricane Helene in September 2024, Biffle used his personal helicopter to deliver essential supplies to hard-hit areas in Western North Carolina that emergency responders struggled to reach. This humanitarian effort led to a close friendship with Garrett Mitchell, who also participated in relief flights. The two remained closely connected through motorsports events ever since.
Remembering a Champion’s Influence
Biffle’s legacy extends far beyond his on-track success. As a driver, he inspired fans and fellow competitors alike. His commitment to charity and community, especially during the aftermath of natural disasters, was respected across NASCAR and the broader racing world. With the loss of Greg Biffle, along with beloved family members and associates like Craig Wadsworth, the NASCAR community faces a moment of deep reflection and sorrow. Tributes from figures like Kenny Wallace, Doug Coby, Ryan Preece, and others underscore the impact Biffle had on racing and those around him.
In the coming days, the motorsports world will grieve, remember, and honor the achievements and generosity of NASCAR Cup Series star Greg Biffle.
