MORE: Stars come out to salute Dale Jr. | Dale’s career in photos
With Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s final planned Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series start upon us, the tributes came rolling in Sunday morning from his peers.
The respect Earnhardt Jr. has gained from his fellow drivers over the years is evident, and it’s clear he’ll be missed as he transitions from driver to broadcaster in 2018.
I’ve been able to call this guy a friend since the late 90’s. He’s been a great friend and teammate and I hope you have an awesome final race @DaleJr. Thanks for the ride! pic.twitter.com/4LpuAPcZfW
– Jimmie Johnson (@JimmieJohnson) November 19, 2017
It’s been an honor to race w @DaleJr over the past decade, all the best on ur last ride. Today we are all Jr. Nation. #Appreci88ion pic.twitter.com/0MxR45FGHb
– Kyle Busch (@KyleBusch) November 19, 2017
Shared a lot of laughs with this guy over the years. He’s always been that guy that was larger than life to me but would always have time for a conversation. Congrats on a great career and thanks for all you’ve done. @DaleJr pic.twitter.com/oUuIUgR9LE
– Clint Bowyer (@ClintBowyer) November 19, 2017
Fun getting to know @DaleJr and racing with him. No one loves this sport more and thankful he’s done so much for I️t. Enjoy ur last ride! pic.twitter.com/tKk79ccY0g
– Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (@StenhouseJr) November 19, 2017
Congratulations Dale on an amazing career. No one will ever forget you. Ever. I know I will… https://t.co/XFAic0Uxow
– Danica Patrick (@DanicaPatrick) November 19, 2017
These Bud’s are for you @DaleJr #Appreci88ion pic.twitter.com/3g9wq4diut
– Ryan Truex (@Ryan_Truex) November 19, 2017
It’s been an honor to race with @DaleJr @mattkenseth and @DanicaPatrick! I look forward to this final battle with these three legendary figures of our great sport! #nascar
– Ty Dillon (@tydillon) November 19, 2017
Hey @DaleJr have some fun today!I’d be working in a paint shop if it wasn’t for you, thanks for everything pal! #ThanksDale pic.twitter.com/tEowydxUKR
– Alex Bowman (@AlexBRacing) November 19, 2017
Thanks for the memories, good times, tons of laughs and the encouragement you have giving me throughout my career…. Enjoy retirement buddy!! @DaleJr #8 pic.twitter.com/qbDRyWBiBS
— Tony Gibson (@TonyOldman41) November 19, 2017
What a special day, us drivers that are coming up hope to continue the path and legacy you have graciously created for this great sport we're in. You have become a great friend and mentor to me pal! Hope your last is as kick-ass as you are bro! pic.twitter.com/u9VjWhARXo
— Darrell Wallace Jr (@BubbaWallace) November 19, 2017