Unfortunately, NASCAR has been rattled by another tragedy involving aircraft. On Thursday morning, Greg Biffle and his family were among those killed in an accident at the Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina.
A champion in both the Craftsman Truck and O'Reilly Auto Parts Series, achieving double-digit victories at all three national levels of the sport, Biffle was a true legend of NASCAR.
A statement provided by the Sanctioning Body read as follows: “NASCAR is devastated by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, Craig Wadsworth and Dennis and Jack Dutton in a fatal plane crash.
"Greg was more than a champion driver, he was a beloved member of the NASCAR community, a fierce competitor, and a friend to so many. His passion for racing, his integrity, and his commitment to fans and fellow competitors alike made a lasting impact on the sport.
"On the track, Greg’s talent and tenacity earned him championships in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, as well as numerous wins and accolades in the NASCAR Cup Series. Beyond his racing career, he gave of himself for the betterment of our community. Most notably, Greg spent countless hours of his time helping the citizens of North Carolina during the disasters that followed Hurricane Helene. His tireless work saved lives.
"Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Greg’s entire family, friends, and all who were touched by his life."
Governor Josh Stein of North Carolina also released a statement, saying: "Heartbreaking news out of Statesville. Beyond his success as a NASCAR driver, Greg Biffle lived a life of courage and compassion and stepped up for western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene. My heart goes out to all those who lost a loved one in this tragic crash."
Every corner of the NASCAR community has been posting various tributes in remembrance of Biffle, who was just days away from his 56th birthday. There are too many posts to include them all here, but here's a selection of comments from various individuals from inside the garage:
Statement from RFK Racing on today’s tragedy. pic.twitter.com/hrUnu8qlP8
— RFK Racing (@RFKracing) December 18, 2025
Awful to hear about Greg and his family. He was somebody I had the privilege of admiring on tv and got to compete against. One of the all time greats both on and off the track. The 16 will always be iconic. pic.twitter.com/RuDCKuRWkG
— Ryan Blaney (@Blaney) December 18, 2025
Such a tragic and heartbreaking day. Greg and Cristina were truly special friends to us, we loved them as well as Emma and Ryder dearly. Greg’s compassion and humanitarian spirit—especially in times of crisis—touched so many lives and inspired everyone who knew him. The memories… pic.twitter.com/UIKrwtUA8s
— Kyle Busch (@KyleBusch) December 18, 2025
Life is short. Hold the ones you love a little tighter. 🙏🏻
— Ryan Preece (@RyanPreece_) December 18, 2025
R.I.P. Biff pic.twitter.com/iaqKhuoq1F
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.
— Chase Briscoe (@chasebriscoe) December 18, 2025
I am devastated to hear of the passing of my friend Greg Biffle, his wife, Cristina, and their children Emma and Ryder. This kind of loss is impossible to understand, and I’m keeping their loved ones in my thoughts and prayers during this tragic time. pic.twitter.com/gmcK2fqM4g
— Kurt Busch (@KurtBusch) December 18, 2025
An incredible race car driver and an even better person, Greg’s bravery and selflessness were evident in everything he did. He was always willing to help those in need, as shown through his courageous work during hurricane relief efforts.
— Doug Yates (@Yates_Doug) December 18, 2025
From the DDS Father Daughter Dance to… pic.twitter.com/oq2wRepVIj
Devastating news. I had such tremendous respect for Greg as a driver, and we shared countless tough battles on the track. Like so many others, I was inspired by his tireless relief work during Hurricane Helene. My heart goes out to the Biffle family and everyone hurting. pic.twitter.com/TN9vbqjpZ4
— Jeff Gordon (@JeffGordonWeb) December 18, 2025
I first raced against Greg Biffle in late models back in the mid-90s. Even then, he was a fierce competitor who never gave an inch. If you beat him, you earned it, and I have great respect for him.
— Kevin Harvick (@KevinHarvick) December 19, 2025
I saw that same determination in the tireless commitment Greg and Cristina showed… pic.twitter.com/7mV0eiApNc
Absolutely crushed about the loss of Greg Biffle and his beautiful family. An unbelievable talent behind the controls of literally anything. Checked all the boxes…Great guy, helped people in need, and most importantly was a great family man. Devastated for everyone! 😥
— Clint Bowyer (@ClintBowyer) December 18, 2025
Mourning our friend, his family, and all those lost in today’s tragedy. pic.twitter.com/0QjyHB5pi4
— Dirty Mo Media (@DirtyMoMedia) December 18, 2025
We are devastated by the loss of our dear friend, his family, and friends that were on the plane with him this morning. Greg was not only a champion driver, he was a great husband, father, son, and friend who did whatever he could to support his community and those associated… pic.twitter.com/R4ZY133p2M
— Ford Racing (@FordRacing) December 18, 2025
My thoughts and prayers are with the Biffle family and their loved ones. I was fortunate enough to be teammates with Greg for a short time and will always remember how he treated me when I was going through one of the hardest times in my on track career. Truly a horrific loss…
— Harrison Burton (@HBurtonRacing) December 18, 2025
Richard Petty and the Petty Family are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle and his family. Greg was not only a fearless competitor, but someone who showed that same fearlessness in his generosity to others.
— Richard Petty (@therichardpetty) December 18, 2025
Our deepest condolences to their loved ones. pic.twitter.com/DMzK7jJfAp
Still trying to wrap my head around this. Greg, Cristina, Emma, and Ryder were taken far too soon. My heart breaks for their entire circle. Biff was a hell of a driver on the track, but an even better man off it. pic.twitter.com/fcqt3nrMF6
— Tony Stewart (@TonyStewart) December 19, 2025
My heart is heavy hearing about the Statesville plane crash. The impact Biffle made on our sport and community can’t be put into words. So close to the holidays, this is heartbreaking. Thinking of his family & friends.
— Brandon Jones (@BrandonJonesRac) December 18, 2025
It’s been extremely hard to work today. My mind and my heart are all with the Biffle family. They were incredible people. So nice, and did so much for so many..
— Rodney Childers (@RodneyChilders4) December 18, 2025
We will see you again one day. 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/Z0RXgqZVpO
Had the opportunity to learn from the Biff when I first got in to the sport. Great teammate, great human, and great family. Such a tragic day today... pic.twitter.com/Y2P9SQLIKO
— Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (@StenhouseJr) December 18, 2025
Statement from @WinstonKelley on the passing of NASCAR Hall of Fame Nominee Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, son Ryder & daughter Emma as well as @NASCAR veteran Craig Wadsworth, Dennis Dutton & son Jack. #NASCAR is & has always been a family sport & we are devasted by this loss. pic.twitter.com/l5jDO9eE60
— NASCAR Hall of Fame (@NASCARHall) December 18, 2025
Words do not describe the devastation our racing community experienced today.
— Motor Racing Network (@MRNRadio) December 18, 2025
The Biffle family leaves a legacy in Motorsports and their humanitarian efforts in helping fellow North Carolinians after Hurricane Helene.
We will continue to remember them for all of their…
Life can be so tragically unfair. Greg was not only a great racer, but an even better person. The work he did helping deliver supplies after the hurricane spoke volumes about who he was. Please pray for the families of everyone who lost their lives on the plane, and for all who… pic.twitter.com/6AgBD1H3rZ
— Jeremy Clements (@JClements51) December 18, 2025
Today the motorsports world lost one of its fiercest competitors and kindest souls. Greg Biffle was a champion on the track and a humanitarian off it, whose impact reached far beyond racing.
— Denny Hamlin (@dennyhamlin) December 18, 2025
We also mourn the loss of his wife Cristina and children Emma & Ryder, along with Craig…
It will forever be the #GregBiffleCrash. What a sad & shocking day. I'm praying for Greg, Cristina and little angels Emma and Ryder. Also for peace and strength to Emma's mom Nicole Lunders . Greg... a star driver and a star in his second act as a humanitarian. pic.twitter.com/GTA70MNjxq
— Mario Andretti (@MarioAndretti) December 18, 2025
Hard to comprehend what happened today. I’ll always remember Greg as a fierce competitor, a family man, a community hero & a champion for animals. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Uo7fzRdNjZ
— Jamie Little (@JamieLittleTV) December 18, 2025
We are heartbroken by the loss of Greg, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder.
— Team SPS Racing (@TeamSPSRacing) December 18, 2025
Greg was more than a champion behind the wheel. He was a competitor, a mentor, a humanitarian, and a friend who carried himself with humility and respect. All who perished will be missed. pic.twitter.com/Goux5DuNyl
What a horrible day, Greg was a teammate with us @RFKracing for so many years, he was an even bigger part of our lives @lknhumane . Words cannot express the feelings to those involved. Prayers from @danagkelley and myself. 🙏🙏🙏
— Mike Kelley (@MkelleyHyak) December 18, 2025
Just totally heartbreaking. Remembering all Greg did for the NASCAR community, and his humanitarian work for those in need during Hurricane Helene. All around class act. RIP 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/oBjc0YhiJ2
— Stefan Parsons (@StefanParsons_) December 18, 2025
Heartbroken beyond words today. The world
— John Roberts (@TheJohnnyTV) December 18, 2025
Lost so much more than just a racecar driver today. Let’s help each other like Greg helped everyone. pic.twitter.com/Jux5NuhAG1
Devastated! My thoughts and prayers go out to the Biffle family and to all those who were lost. 💔
— Kyle Larson (@KyleLarsonRacin) December 18, 2025
I feel awful for Greg, Cristina thier family and friends that passed away yesterday.
— David Ragan (@DavidRagan) December 19, 2025
Greg was a great teammate during my Roush days and always allowed me to tag along on adventures away from the track.
A reminder that Earth isn’t our forever home and time can be short.
Absolutely heartbroken for all those involved in today’s accident. Prayers to their loved ones and friends. Greg’s on track achievements were incredible, but it’s what he and Christina did in the wake of Hurricane Helene that truly defined them. All will be missed.
— Regan Smith (@ReganSmith) December 18, 2025
A truly devastating day for our NASCAR community. Keeping the Biffle family and everyone impacted by this tragedy in my thoughts and prayers. 💔🙏
— Ron Hornaday (@RonHornaday) December 18, 2025
Greg Biffle was a Racers Racer, and a Gentleman. RIP my friend. https://t.co/qVdNPxAeow
— Chip Ganassi (@GanassiChip) December 18, 2025
My heart aches for the entire Biffle family and victims involved. My heart is especially heavy for Greg and Nicole’s daughter, Emma, who was a friend to both my girls. Emma had the biggest heart, and would always stop and give me a hug. Our hearts are with them. 🕊️🙏🏼❤️ pic.twitter.com/3HnW1lQ0zi
— Jordan Fish (@missjfish) December 19, 2025
— Dawson Cram Dawson Cram (@dawsoncram41) December 18, 2025
Horrible news today praying for everyone involved that lost loved ones. Greg was always super nice and supportive of me he was a great racer and person. 🙏🏻
— Jeb Burton (@JebBurtonRacing) December 18, 2025
Our deepest condolences to the family & friends of Greg Biffle.
— Rette Jones Racing (@RetteJones30) December 18, 2025
Greg’s selflessness & kindness made a lasting impact on the motorsports world.
The loss of Greg & his family is heartbreaking — our thoughts & prayers are with all who loved them during this difficult time💔🕊️
 pic.twitter.com/Ut5pHPtE5s
Shocked and saddened to hear about Greg Biffle and his family he was a great racer and a great human being. My thoughts are with the family and everyone who loved him.
— Sterling Marlin (@SMR_114) December 18, 2025
Praying for Greg and Cristina’s family and friends and the families of those that were on board with them.
— Garrett Smithley (@GarrettSmithley) December 18, 2025
Greg was a hero on and more importantly off the track. There’s no doubt he saved countless lives.
Praying for the @NASCAR community tonight 🙏🏻 https://t.co/lQewFcxkV5
My god. Just setting the bus up, plugged the TV cable in the first thing I see was the news of Greg and his family passing away. Every hair on my body stood up. Emotions hit like a ton of bricks. Posting on X doesn’t do it justice,
— Ryan Hunter-Reay (@RyanHunterReay) December 18, 2025
Felt I had to say something. Need an outlet…
It’s crazy how vulnerable we are in life. Today we are here, tomorrow who knows.
— Daniel Suárez (@Daniel_SuarezG) December 18, 2025
Rest in peace amigo. 🙏🏼
Great race car driver, even better person.
— Freddie Kraft (@FreddieKraft) December 18, 2025
And one of the most fun people to be around away from the racetrack.
Such a huge loss to our racing community. Thinking of his family and friends, and especially our good buddy @FishingSpotter.
RIP Biff. pic.twitter.com/hgWwGwM7y7
Greg did much good in the world, this doesn’t seem fair - or real. The word that has been coming to mind all day trying to process the news is kindness. Biff was just so kind to me as a reporter. On bad days (or as he admitted bad years) he never took it out on me, was never rude… pic.twitter.com/J4b1eztE7c
— Danielle Trotta (@DanielleTrotta) December 18, 2025
This guy was special.
— Marty Smith (@MartySmithESPN) December 19, 2025
A friend for 25 years who I respected immensely, both personally and professionally.
Absolute shoe. Fearless, fierce competitor. Currently on the NASCAR Hall of Fame ballot. Always thoughtful and strikingly honest with the media.
But beyond the driving… pic.twitter.com/prQB8grbnW
Feel blessed with the times I got to enjoy with Greg and his family. We had a blast for a few years and the news today hit hard. Praying for him and his family. Going to miss catching them out at the track. pic.twitter.com/MXOtGbRttk
— Erik Jones (@Erik_Jones) December 19, 2025
this moment means so much more. something i will remember forever. heartbreaking day. RIP ❤️. pic.twitter.com/jKLLg1kloL
— Carson Hocevar (@CarsonHocevar) December 18, 2025
Greg Biffle was a great race car driver but was an even greater person. His competitiveness on the track carried over to the passion he showed in serving others. I'll always remember his back-to-back wins at @TooToughToTame. Praying for his family & friends. pic.twitter.com/NQPuiKfGiy
— Kerry Tharp (@Kerry_Tharp) December 19, 2025
There are no words to express the sadness around the tragic passing of Greg Biffle and his family. Greg brought boundless energy and insatiable curiosity to everything he tackled in life. He had such a positive impact on all of us, and he and his family will be deeply missed.
— Steve Newmark (@NewmarkUNC) December 18, 2025
One of the silver linings to such a small and intertwined industry is the support and love we have for every member of the NASCAR family. Today is a tough one. We've lost a family that made contributions far beyond the racetrack. Rest in Paradise friends.
— Justin Marks (@JustinMarksTH) December 18, 2025
Cheers Biff, Craig. You were great people. Always help others is what I think of when I think of you two. Many prayers to your family and loved ones. Love y’all. pic.twitter.com/9eLm09po5q
— Michael Waltrip (@MW55) December 18, 2025
Still at a loss for words regarding the tragedy that happened yesterday. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone impacted by this extremely unfortunate incident. I will forever look back on our friendly battles in a race car, but more importantly, I’ll remember Greg for his… pic.twitter.com/0zS4gsFjqu
— Joey Logano (@joeylogano) December 19, 2025
Today is a tough one. We lost someone who made such a positive impact on so many lives.
— Bob Dillner (@bobdillner) December 18, 2025
From short tracks out west, to the big leagues of NASCAR, & recently helping those who needed it most, Greg Biffle was a great man.
He loved his family, & we loved him. One day, I’ll see you…
NY Racing Team is deeply saddened by the loss of our former teammate, Greg Biffle, alongside his beloved family. May his memory continue to be a blessing to all those who knew him and supported him during his NASCAR career. Our hearts are with his family, friends and fans.
— NY Racing Team (@NYRacingTeam) December 18, 2025
We will love and miss you Biff. May you and your Family RIP🙏🕊️ pic.twitter.com/nGygOcam6M
— Kaden Honeycutt (@KadenWHoneycutt) December 18, 2025
Everyone @IMS is saddened by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle, his family, and those involved in today’s plane crash. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Biffle family, friends, and his legion of fans. pic.twitter.com/AaaiV8Qcmk
— J. Douglas Boles (@jdouglas4) December 19, 2025
— Bubba Wallace (@BubbaWallace) December 18, 2025
Thinking of both of them. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/9ljMgddzCE
— Xfinity Racing (@XfinityRacing) December 18, 2025
Remembering my friends in the Greg Biffle tragedy ❤️ pic.twitter.com/FjIs8RXaNn
— Kenny Wallace (@Kenny_Wallace) December 18, 2025
Statement from Jack Roush on today’s tragedy. pic.twitter.com/DpuCgGr70N
— RFK Racing (@RFKracing) December 18, 2025
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