Veteran NASCAR Crew Chief Ryan Pemberton Has Died at 54

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Ryan Pemberton, a seasoned NASCAR crew chief and competition manager, has passed away at the age of 54.

Ryan Pemberton’s Legendary Career

Pemberton’s roots in racing run deep, as he hailed from a family with a strong racing background. His older brother, Robin, previously held the position of Vice President of competition for NASCAR. Ryan Pemberton began his own journey in NASCAR in 1988, with Jack Roush.

Before his passing, Pemberton’s most recent role was as director of competition at JR Motorsports. Throughout his career, he collaborated with notable drivers such as Derrike Cope, Ernie Irvan, Jerry Nadeau, Dave Blaney, Joe Nemechek, and Mark Martin.

In 2004, Pemberton achieved a significant milestone in his career by securing his first NASCAR Cup Series win. The victory marked a pivotal moment for his career, showcasing his skills and strategic talents as a crew chief.

Ryan Pemberton continued to build an impressive career as a crew chief, engaging in over 600 races, achieving two Cup wins, and securing three victories in the Xfinity Series. He also played a crucial role in JR Motorsports’ acquisition of three Xfinity Series championships, contributing to an outstanding total of 58 race victories.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Pemberton family. pic.twitter.com/Zu7kXIwyPz

— JR Motorsports (@JRMotorsports) January 15, 2024

“Ryan was instrumental to JR Motorsports’ success during the decade he spent with us,” Kelley Earnhardt Miller said in a statement posted to X. “He had such a passion for competition and, as a leader, knew how to motivate everyone he worked with. He will always be part of the JRM family. Our hearts go out to his wife Andrea and daughters Payton and Britton during this tremendously difficult time.”

The cause of Pemberton’s death has not been unconfirmed.

His passion, expertise, and dedication for racing left an undeniable mark on the community, and he will forever be remembered for his incredible contributions to the sport.