NASCAR Community Loses Steve Byrnes

Credit: FOX Sports

Bidding farewell to old friends is never easy. 

The day that the NASCAR community hoped wouldn't come came today. We offer a tear-filled goodbye to Steve Byrnes, who lost his hard-fought battle with head and neck cancer. 

Byrnes and his son, Bryson/Credit: FOX Sports

Byrnes, a FOX Sports 1 host and announcer, passed away a week after his 56th birthday. He leaves behind his wife, Karen, and son, Bryson. 

This past weekend, drivers, fans, and members of the media honored Byrnes halfway through the race that bore his name, the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes and Stand Up to Cancer. Those in attendance stood at Lap 250 of the 500-lap event to show their support of Byrnes and others fighting cancer.

NASCAR Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brian France issued the following statement:

“NASCAR extends its condolences to the many friends, FOX Sports colleagues and family of Steve Byrnes. Whether you had the privilege of knowing him or if you watched him on television for the last three decades, Steve’s work ethic and authenticity made him a beloved individual inside and outside the garage.

 

“His level of professionalism was matched only by the warmth he showed everyone he met. He battled cancer with tenacity, and was a true inspiration to everyone in the NASCAR family. Simply stated, we’ll miss Steve dearly. Our thoughts are especially with his wife Karen and son Bryson during this difficult time.”
  

You fought the good fight, Steve. Those of us who've watched and admired you throughout your career will keep your spirit alive as we continue to stand #ByrnesStrong.

Texas Motor Speedway, Nov. 2014
Credit: Debbie Ross/Skirts and Scuffs