Legendary NASCAR pioneer and championship car owner Robert Yates has died at 74 after battling liver cancer for nearly a year. His son, Doug Yates made the announcement Monday.
My Dad and Hero, Robert Yates, has passed and is with the Lord. Thanks for all the prayers and support. pic.twitter.com/hxa0wfdZkE
— Doug Yates (@Yates_Doug) October 3, 2017
Months after his initial diagnosis, Yates was informed that he would be inducted as part of the 2018 NASCAR Hall of Fame class. As an owner, Yates won the 1999 Cup Series title with fellow hall inductee Dale Jarrett. Before eventually turning Robert Yates Racing over to his son Doug in 2007, Yates compiled 77 premier series wins including three Daytona 500s.
Yates was a devoted and talented engine builder who worked the early part of his career in Junior Johnson's garage. He went on to build Bobby Allison's 1983 championship engine. He purchased Robert Yates Racing in 1988, which in 2010 merged with fellow NASCAR legend Richard Petty's team, Richard Petty Motorsports, which is home to popular drivers Aric Almirola and Darrell Wallace Jr. Doug Yates currently owns Roush Yates Engines, which powers the Ford Fusions in the Monster Energy Cup Series.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our founder, Robert Yates. He was surrounded by his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/wEtD5noXAU
— Roush Yates Engines (@roushyates) October 3, 2017
In addition to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, he earned the Bill France Award of Excellence in 2000 and also received the Buddy Shuman Award for Lifetime Achievement in NASCAR in 2007.
"Robert Yates excelled in multiple NASCAR disciplines, earning the respect of an entire industry and an everlasting place in the hearts and minds of the NASCAR fanbase," said NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France in a statement. "His excellence spanned decades, from the 1983 championship powered by his engines and the 1999 title captured by the cars he owned, both of which helped earn him a deserved spot in the NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2018.
"And though he was a master at his craft, it was Robert's passion and character that endeared him to every single person he encountered and will ensure that his memory will live on for generations. On behalf of my family and all of NASCAR, I extend heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of a NASCAR giant, whose legacy will impact an entire industry forever."
The NASCAR community reacted to Yates' death on Twitter.
Robert Yates was a good man, incredible engine builder, my thoughts and prayers are with Carolyn and Doug, RIP my dear old friend!
— Darrell Waltrip (@AllWaltrip) October 3, 2017
Very sad to hear the news about Robert Yates. Please keep the entire family in your thoughts and prayers. A great man
— Dale Jarrett (@DaleJarrett) October 3, 2017
He was a great man. Hero to many! https://t.co/Li3SZR9ZY0
— Dale Earnhardt Jr. (@DaleJr) October 3, 2017
An amazing leader and pioneer of our sport...sending prayers for @Yates_Doug & family. We will do our best to continue Robert's legacy.
— Joey Logano (@joeylogano) October 3, 2017
Sorry Doug. He was an inspiration to many of us and the work he put into this sport is unmatched. 🏁 https://t.co/qZFfpruRps
— Kyle Busch (@KyleBusch) October 3, 2017
Saddened to learn of the passing of Robert Yates, but proud of all his and his family’s accomplishments. His #NASCAR legacy lives on. https://t.co/qjm68i8Bh7
— Stewart-Haas Racing (@StewartHaasRcng) October 3, 2017
"From the very first day I walked into the Robert Yates Racing shop I learned that Robert knew every aspect and detail of his shop from the broom handle to board room," Jarrett said after being elected to the NASCAR Hall of Fame. "Robert Yates was the smartest person in the racing industry"