NASCAR’s 14-time most popular driver, Dale Earnhardt Jr. is turning in his keys, announcing his retirement from the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series following the conclusion of the 2017 season. Announcing his plans, Earnhardt will continue to race two Xfinity Series races in 2018 with the team he owns and remain with the sport. “To my father, Dale Earnhardt, I would not have been a racecar driver if not for him believing in me,” he said. “It might have taken a bit of encouragement from Tony Eury Sr. but eventually dad came around. I appreciate my father, everything he put into my career and all the guys on the old AC Delco team that gave me a shot.”

Reactions were supportive of his decision as well as his legacy:

“Dale Earnhardt Jr. is among the most recognizable athletes in the world, unequivocally serving as the sport’s most popular driver for more than a decade,” said Brian France, NASCAR Chairman and CEO. “His passion for the sport will leave an impact on NASCAR that will be felt over its entire history. Over his 20-plus year career, Dale has proven himself a leader with a deep commitment to so many areas of the sport – all the way to its roots. We’re excited about the next chapter of his NASCAR career and wish him success for the remainder of 2017.”

“Dale Jr. has had a huge impact on our sport – and you can see that every week with his legion of fans and Junior Nation,” said former teammate and current FOX NASCAR analyst Jeff Gordon. “He has a tremendous sense of the history of NASCAR and, while he shares his father’s name, Dale has made a name for himself with his accomplishments in racing. While we will miss Dale on the track next year, he loves this sport, those working in the industry and the fans too much to ever be too far away.”

“Dale Jr. has been a tremendous partner and friend to Nationwide,” said primary sponsor Nationwide in a statement. “We look forward to continuing our relationship with him after the conclusion of what’s sure to be a memorable 2017 season.”