CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The world of motorsports mourns the loss of Humpy Wheeler, a pioneering promoter and former president and general manager of Charlotte Motor Speedway. NASCAR announced Wheeler’s passing at the age of 86. The Charlotte Motor Speedway reported that Wheeler passed away on Wednesday of natural causes, surrounded by his family.
Howard Augustine Wheeler Jr. was born in 1938 in Belmont. He got his first major job in advertising with Firestone Tire and Rubber Company. After Firestone closed its racing program in 1970, he held several other positions before being hired at Charlotte Motor Speedway by owner Bruton Smith as president in 1975. Wheeler became a transformative figure in promoting racing, and he was known as the “P.T. Barnum of motorsports” for his spectacular pre-race stunts, elaborate productions, and for sparing no expense to ensure that fans had the most enjoyable experience possible at his events. Earlier this year, Wheeler was named the winner of NASCAR’s prestigious Landmark Award for Outstanding Contributions to NASCAR, which would have led to his induction into the Hall of Fame next year.“Humpy Wheeler was a visionary whose name became synonymous with promotion and innovation in our sport,” said Jim France, NASCAR chairman. “During the decades he led Charlotte Motor Speedway, Humpy transformed the fan experience through his creativity, bold ideas, and tireless passion. His efforts helped expand NASCAR’s national footprint, solidifying Charlotte as a must-visit racing and entertainment complex.”
Jim France, NASCAR chairman
