Howard Augustine “Humpy” Wheeler Jr., the legendary NASCAR promoter and former president of Charlotte Motor Speedway, died of natural causes on August 20, 2025. He was 86 years old.
Wheeler served as president of Charlotte Motor Speedway from 1975 to 2008, overseeing its transformation into one of the world’s premier motorsports venues during his 33-year tenure. Known as the “P.T. Barnum of motorsports,” Wheeler revolutionized the fan experience through innovative promotions and bold marketing strategies that helped expand NASCAR’s national reach.
NASCAR Chairman and CEO Jim France said Wheeler was “a visionary whose name became synonymous with promotion and innovation in our sport.” France noted that Wheeler’s creativity, bold ideas and tireless passion helped cement Charlotte as a must-visit racing and entertainment complex.
Wheeler was instrumental in several NASCAR firsts, including bringing Janet Guthrie to compete in the 1976 World 600, making her the first woman to qualify for a race at a NASCAR superspeedway. He also delivered NASCAR’s first night race in 1993, consistently breaking new ground in stock car racing throughout his career.
Working alongside Charlotte Motor Speedway founder Bruton Smith, Wheeler pushed the facility to new heights, establishing the 1.5-mile superspeedway as one of the most innovative facilities in NASCAR. He was known for his engaging personality and hands-on approach to fan relations, often telling his staff to focus on “the three Ts – tickets, traffic and toilets” to ensure the best possible fan experience.
Wheeler’s promotional flair extended beyond traditional racing events. In 2007, he donned an apron and hat to pitch hot dogs and popcorn to fans alongside competitive eater Joey Chestnut, demonstrating his willingness to personally engage with the racing community. His larger-than-life personality and dedication to fans made him one of the most beloved figures in motorsports.
Beyond his NASCAR career, Wheeler lent his voice to the entertainment industry, providing the voice for Tex Dinoco, a Cadillac Coupe de Ville character in Pixar’s “Cars” and “Cars 3” films. Before entering motorsports, Wheeler was an accomplished amateur boxer with a 40-2 record.
Wheeler was set to be inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame as a recipient of the Landmark Award in the Class of 2026, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth and esteem of NASCAR. The prestigious Landmark Award honors outstanding contributions to the sport.
A funeral service was held at St. Gabriel Catholic Church in south Charlotte on Tuesday, August 25, where family, friends and the NASCAR community gathered for a solemn ceremony. Following the funeral, a reception was held at Charlotte Motor Speedway, where attendees celebrated Wheeler’s life and legacy.
Retired NASCAR driver Kyle Petty reflected on Wheeler’s lasting impact, indicating that Wheeler didn’t touch just one fan but touched a generation of fans, with his influence continuing generation after generation. Marcus Smith, Wheeler’s successor at Charlotte Motor Speedway and son of Bruton Smith, described the ceremony as a reminder of how many lives Wheeler touched throughout his career.
Smith emphasized the powerful partnership between Wheeler and his father, stating that the duo made an amazing team who were better together than they would have been apart. He noted that their special relationship made amazing things happen and established Wheeler’s legacy that will live on at Charlotte Motor Speedway for future generations.
Wheeler often told people it was their job to put a little “technicolor in people’s black-and-white lives,” reflecting his philosophy of bringing excitement and innovation to the sport. His approach to motorsports promotion helped establish Charlotte Motor Speedway as not only the most innovative facility in NASCAR for fan, partner and competitor amenities, but also one of the most progressive venues in all of sports.
In lieu of flowers, the Wheeler family has requested that donations be made to the Belmont Abbey College Motorsports Management Program, which Wheeler helped found. Donations can be made online or by mail to the Office of College Relations at 100 Belmont-Mt. Holly Road, Belmont, North Carolina 28012.
Wheeler’s death marks the end of an era for NASCAR, as the sport loses one of its most influential and innovative promoters. His contributions to motorsports promotion and fan experience development helped shape modern NASCAR and establish Charlotte Motor Speedway as a premier racing destination.
