NASCAR mourns maestro's death

Despite being diagnosed with cancer nearly seven years ago, and his health deteriorating since then, the news of his death has caught stock car racing by surprise, invoking fond reactions from everyone involved in NASCAR.

"Bill France Jr was not only a leader in our sport but he was also a very good friend," said team owner Richard Childress, who went through all the period of change since France took over as the head of NASCAR in 1972.

"Not only did he teach me a lot about our sport but he taught me numerous lessons about life. Over the last several years, NASCAR has grown to an unprecedented level of popularity. None of that would have been possible without the vision and leadership Mr. France provided."

Other team owners who joined NASCAR when it was already a big sport also remembered him and praised his accomplishments through his life not only as an entrepreneur, but also as an individual.

"We've lost a strong leader, a visionary businessman and a truly amazing person," said Rick Hendrick. "Bill was one of the toughest guys I've ever met, but he had a soft side, too.

"I've never seen anyone who could strike the balance that Bill did. He knew exactly what he wanted to accomplish and rarely compromised, yet always made it a point to be fair."

Teresa Earnhardt from DEI added: "Everyone at DEI will be forever grateful to Bill for giving us the opportunity to compete and build businesses that provide entertainment to millions and a livelihood to all of the people employed in some capacity by this sport.

"He led with an unselfish approach and we have all benefited from his wisdom."

Tony George, CEO of Indianapolis Motor Speedway, praised France's persona. "Bill was a great friend and business partner," he said. "He ranks near the top of the list of people I most respect. Besides his companionship, what I will miss most is his humour. His wit was sharp as a butcher's knife."

Some of the most experienced NASCAR drivers, who felt the impact of France's leadership, expressed their sadness at the loss of a genius.

"It's a huge loss," said 48-year-old Mark Martin. "Bill France Jr is someone that I will never forget.

"I will always remember him for his strong leadership and his tremendous vision. I was around when he took over leadership from his father. There is no arguing that he carried this sport to a new level."

"When you look at the sport of NASCAR racing and think about the people that have truly made a difference Bill France comes to mind first," said former Cup champion Dale Jarrett.

"Even though Bill had not been directly involved in the day to day operations for quite a while, and he felt comfortable with what he had put in place for that to happen, he was still a voice to be heard for (daughter) Lesa and (son) Brian and everyone within the NASCAR community and he will be deeply missed."