Motorsports' reaction to the death of Bill France Jr.

• Message Board: Post your condolences to the France family
• Community: Share your memories of Bill Jr. in the Tribute Crew
• Reaction: Motorsports world reacts to death of Bill France Jr.
• Timeline: William C. France biographical timeline and career events

Brian France -- chairman and CEO, NASCAR; son of Bill France Jr.

"He had a remarkable career and an even-more remarkable life. Words cannot express how much he'll be missed by myself and the rest of our family and by the NASCAR industry overall."

Mike Helton -- president, NASCAR

"Coming in, I had two big pairs of shoes to fill [Bill France and Bill Jr.]. I was more familiar with Bill Jr.'s way of doing business but that didn't make it any easier.

"He blazed so many trails for our sport. He was determined to follow the vision of his father while also expanding on that vision. Over nearly four decades, he did a masterful job."

Dale Earnhardt Jr. -- driver, No. 8 Chevrolet

"It's a profound loss for the sport. His dad really started NASCAR, but he's the one probably most responsible for the state of our sport today. He's one of those giants -- very intimidating to me. I didn't know him well, but my dad was close with him and I know that made my dad very very proud to get close to someone that not a lot of others did."

Bob and Gary Bahre -- chairman and president, New Hampshire International Speedway

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Bill France, Jr. Bill was not only a great friend of ours personally, but he was a great friend of the Speedway as well. Our entire family will cherish the many memories that we shared with him. His influence on the sport of auto racing will be felt forever. Our thoughts and prayers are with Betty Jane, Brian, Lesa, and the entire France family."

Doug Fritz -- president, Richmond International Raceway

"Words can't describe the impact Bill France Jr. had on our sport. From the millions of NASCAR fans to those of us who make our livelihood in NASCAR, we all have Bill to thank for his vision and leadership.

"I knew Bill for more than 17years, so I know he would have wanted us to get right back to work to help promote the sport he loved. We will carry on, but we'll do so with heavy hearts. We will miss him tremendously."

Brent Dewar -- vice president of vehicle sales, service and marketing, General Motors North America

"The world of racing has lost a true innovator in Bill France, Jr., who made NASCAR the premiere sport it is today. His vision, tenacity and friendship will be missed. He left the sport better and provided the foundation for continued growth. Chevrolet and General Motors extends its thoughts and prayers to the France family." (Continued)