Former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, and their two children, Emma and Ryder, died in a plane crash on December 18, 2025. The crash occurred near Statesville and also claimed the lives of Craig Wadsworth, Dennis Dutton, and Dutton’s son, Jack. The news sent shockwaves through the motorsports community.
Biffle was 55 and had spent more than two decades in NASCAR, including long stints at the Cup and Xfinity Series levels. He was widely respected for his success on the track and his charity work away from racing, particularly in disaster relief. The loss of seven people, including two children, has deeply affected teams, drivers, and fans across the sport.
Greg Biffle’s NASCAR career and achievements
Greg Biffle built one of the most consistent careers of his era. He won 19 NASCAR Cup Series races and captured the 2002 Xfinity Series championship. From 2003 through 2016, he raced primarily for Roush Fenway Racing, now RFK Racing. During that time, he became a regular playoff contender and finished inside the top 10 in the Cup Series standings multiple times, with a best finish of second in 2005.
Biffle was known for strong performances on intermediate tracks and for competing hard but clean. His success across NASCAR’s national series placed him among the top drivers of his generation.
Jack Roush, co-owner of RFK Racing, said the loss extended far beyond the race team. “The entire Charlotte sports community has suffered a tremendous loss, Roush said.” “The tragic accident involving Greg Biffle and his family today is incredibly heartbreaking. I have lost a dear friend and partner in our NASCAR program. His contributions to our race team over the years are immeasurable.”
After stepping away from full-time racing, Biffle remained active in motorsports and stayed connected to the NASCAR garage.
Reaction from drivers and NASCAR leaders
Well-known drivers across the garage shared reactions following the news. Many focused on Biffle’s competitiveness on the track and his character away from it.
Denny Hamlin said the loss reached far beyond racing results. “Today the motorsports world lost one of its fiercest competitors and kindest souls, Hamlin said.” “Greg Biffle was a champion on the track and a humanitarian off it, whose impact reached far beyond racing.”
Kyle Busch, who had a close personal relationship with Biffle and his family, also shared his thoughts. “Such a tragic and heartbreaking day,Busch said.” “Greg and Cristina were truly special friends to us, we loved them as well as Emma and Ryder dearly.”
Kyle Larson said he was devastated by the news and offered condolences to all families involved.
Crew chiefs and team personnel echoed those reactions. Rodney Childers said the loss made it difficult to focus on work, noting how much the Biffle family meant to so many in the sport.
Work off the track and lasting impact
While Biffle’s racing career was widely known, many drivers pointed to his work away from the track as just as important. He played an active role in disaster relief efforts, especially after major hurricanes, often using his own equipment and resources to help affected communities.
Chase Briscoe highlighted that side of Biffle’s legacy. “Tough day for our community. The Biff obviously made a big impact on the track, winning over 50 races, but it doesn’t even come close to the impact he made off the track, especially with everything he did during the hurricane relief. Thoughts and prayers for the Biffle family.”
Media members also remembered Biffle for his accessibility. Journalist Matt Weaver said Biffle was always willing to give time in the garage and never treated questions as a burden.
The crash claimed seven lives and left a lasting void across the motorsports community. Greg Biffle’s career, humanitarian work, and family life continue to be remembered throughout NASCAR.
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