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NASCAR WCUP: Ernie Irvan Retires from Racing

3 September 1999

By Terry Callahan
The Auto Channel

DARLINGTON, SC: NASCAR Winston Cup driver Ernie Irvan retired from racing today. He has raced in NASCAR's top division for 13 seasons.

"This was a tough decision to make, but I was able to make it on my own terms, and now I can focus on my immediate future,'' said Irvan. Physically, I feel good, but I believe this is the right decision."

Irvan made the decision after receiving his second head injury in less than five years. Both injuries came at the Michigan International Speedway.

Irvan nearly lost his life five years ago at the famed two-mile oval in Southern Michigan. He returned to racing and succeeded in winning at that tough track. Irvan crashed again at Michigan in August. He has been sidelined ever since.

"They said another accident like the one I had earlier probably would be detrimental to me living a wholesome life," said Irvan. It's something that brings tears to my eyes to know I'm never going to drive a Winston Cup car again."

Irvan has fifteen career victories in NASCAR Winston Cup racing. His first win came in 1990.

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