The NASCAR community united in grief on Friday for a poignant memorial service honouring former driver Greg Biffle, his family, and the other victims of last month's devastating plane crash.
A Community in Mourning
Hundreds gathered at the Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte to remember Biffle, his wife Cristina, their two children Ryder, 5, and Emma, 14, and four others. The seven lives were lost when their Cessna C550 jet crashed shortly after departing Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina on its return journey. Also on board were Dennis Dutton, his son Jack, and Craig Wadsworth.
The service featured heartfelt eulogies from friends and family. Driver and influencer Garrett Mitchell, known online as “Cleetus McFarland,” spoke of his close friend. “We have all been saying, ‘Be like Biff,’ since we lost our hero,” Mitchell told the crowd. He explained the phrase meant seizing opportunities, supporting loved ones, and generously helping others.
A Legacy On and Off the Track
Greg Biffle, 55, was a formidable figure in motorsport. He competed at the highest level for 18 years, was named one of NASCAR’s top 75 drivers in history, and was a Hall of Fame nominee. Beyond racing, he made headlines for his humanitarian work as a helicopter pilot, delivering aid in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
His niece, Jordyn Biffle, shared touching memories of the family, describing Ryder’s admiration for his father, Emma’s laughter, and Cristina’s loving nature. “Their lives remind us that what matters isn't how long we are here, but how we use the time we are given,” she said.
Fans and Friends Pay Their Respects
Outside the coliseum, fans paused by three race cars Biffle drove during his career. Inside, seven wreaths adorned the stage, and images of the victims were displayed. Attendees included former drivers Jeff Burton and Phil Parsons.
Dylan Zirkle, who worked for Biffle at Roush Racing, travelled to attend. “Greg was always a really good guy... It still doesn't feel real,” he said, echoing the disbelief felt across the sport. Fans Tanner Roberts and Jassamin Green made a four-hour journey from Wilmington with their son to pay their respects, recalling Biffle as both a great driver and a good person.
The tragedy has left the NASCAR community deeply shaken, compounded by other off-season misfortunes. In a further distressing development, sheriff's deputies are investigating an alleged break-in at Biffle's Mooresville home, where cash, guns, and memorabilia were stolen.
As a public tribute, Garrett Mitchell planned to perform a burnout later that Friday near Biffle’s marker on the North Carolina Auto Racing Walk of Fame in Mooresville, a fitting farewell for a racing legend.
