Dale Earnhardt Jr. Expresses Deep Emotion Over Budweiser Partnership Revival With JR Motorsports
On May 25, 2025, Dale Earnhardt Jr. announced a renewed partnership between JR Motorsports and Budweiser—a monumental move that not only revives a historic NASCAR alliance but also serves as a heartfelt tribute to his late father, Dale Earnhardt Sr. The emotional announcement struck a chord with fans and industry insiders alike, as it marked the return of one of the most iconic brand associations in NASCAR history.
Budweiser, a $137 billion brand globally recognized for its longstanding ties to American sports, is once again aligning with the Earnhardt name. For Dale Jr., the partnership is more than just a business deal—it’s a bridge to the past, to memories of roaring engines, packed grandstands, and the No. 8 Budweiser Chevrolet that became a symbol of passion and pride during the early 2000s. That car, driven by Dale Jr. in his formative years in the Cup Series, became iconic not only for its performance but for what it represented: legacy, identity, and the continuation of his father’s spirit on the track.
“This partnership brings me full circle,” Dale Jr. said in an emotional statement. “Budweiser wasn’t just a sponsor—it was part of my identity and a major part of my career. To bring it back now, with JR Motorsports, is incredibly meaningful—not just for me, but for the fans and for the memory of my dad.”
The elder Dale Earnhardt, a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, was synonymous with intensity, legacy, and competitive spirit. While he never drove a Budweiser-branded car himself, his influence on Dale Jr.’s early career and the broader NASCAR culture laid the groundwork for the original Budweiser partnership. Fans vividly recall the red No. 8 car tearing up the track during Dale Jr.’s peak years, forging unforgettable memories that are now being rekindled by this renewed alliance.
The deal with Budweiser will bring back the signature red-and-white livery, expected to debut later this season in the Xfinity Series with a limited run and possible future expansions. JR Motorsports plans to incorporate the Budweiser branding across multiple platforms, including merchandise, digital content, and fan engagement events—cementing the return of a NASCAR classic.
“This isn’t just nostalgia,” said Kelley Earnhardt Miller, CEO of JR Motorsports. “This is about honoring history while driving the future of our team. We’re bringing back an era, but we’re also building on it in a way that makes sense today.”
Fans have already responded with overwhelming enthusiasm, flooding social media with photos, tributes, and memories from the Budweiser No. 8 car era. It’s clear that for many, this partnership isn’t just about racing—it’s about connection, family, and the enduring impact of a name that still commands respect in the sport.
As Dale Jr. concluded, “Every time I see that Budweiser logo on our cars again, I think of my dad. This is for him. This is for the fans. And this is just the beginning.”
