Ex-NASCAR driver Chase Pistone dies aged 42 as family pay emotional tribute

American Chase Pistone, who drove in NASCAR between 2005 and 2014, has tragically passed away at the age of 42, with his family and those in the sport paying tribute

Tributes are being paid after the tragic death of former NASCAR driver Chase Pistone. American racer Pistone was just 42.

Although no cause of death has been released, Pistone’s heartbroken family have asked that the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline be shared alongside any reporting on his passing. Chase’s brother, Nick, confirmed the devastating news on social media.

“Well, my young brother and best friend is gone,” Nick posted on Facebook. “I’m broken-hearted and don’t know if I’ll ever get over this. I miss you Chase already and I hope you are in a better place. I love you and I miss you so much already.”

NASCAR legend Bubba Wallace also shared a tribute on X. “A guy I raced with in legends cars took his life today,” an extract from Wallace’s post read. “Just a lot of damn sadness man.”

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Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, he was the grandson of legendary driver ‘Tiger’ Tom Pistone. ‘Tiger’ claimed two victories in the NASCAR Cup Series.

Chase won over 80 feature events in Legends, Late Model and USAR racing over the course of his career. His triumphs included four separate Summer Shootout Champions Legends wins between 1999 and 2005.

Pistone began his NASCAR journey in the Craftsman Truck Series in 2005, driving for Green Light Racing. He made a total of 10 starts across NASCAR’s three national series, mainly racing in the O’Reilly and Truck series. His time in NASCAR came to an end in 2014.

Pistone’s sister-in-law, Phaedra, asked Hickory Motor Speedway – a historic racing venue in North Carolina – if it would consider honouring Chase’s memory during the first race of this weekend. “Chase had a deep connection to Hickory Motor Speedway, and the racing community meant so much to him,” she wrote, according to a letter shared on the raceway’s Facebook page on Monday.

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“The track was not just a place to him – it was part of his life, his passion, and a place filled with meaningful memories for our entire family.”

Hickory Motor Speedway responded in a statement saying that it will do its ‘best to respect the family’s wishes and honour his memory before the race this Saturday night’.

Kevin Piercy, Hickory Motor Speedway’s general manager, added: “Chase was always in a great mood and a joy to be around. I appreciate the support and love that we both share for Hickory Motor Speedway. He will be missed.”

For emotional support you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website