NASCAR logo The NASCAR Cup Series logo is shown on the champions trophy during NASCAR media day at Phoenix Convention Center on Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022. Nascar Nascar Championship Media Day
RacingBy Arthur Weinstein on

Tommy Baldwin Jr., who’s spent almost 30 years as a NASCAR crew chief or team owner, announced Sunday he has been diagnosed with cancer.

Baldwin made the announcement on Twitter.

“Today, I post news that no one ever wants to hear … I have cancer. It’s treatable, but this week of racing will be the last for a while for the Tommy Baldwin Racing team. Going to take a break & begin treatment to beat it into the ground.

“This is not a post for pity. I want to let the world know that if you don’t feel right, go get checked out by a doctor now. Don’t wait. If I can save one life by posting this, I have done my job. Never be scared to go see the doctor — it could save your life. Take the message & share it with those you love before it’s too late. I will beat this challenge like every other. The grind begins now! Thanks to everyone for the support. See you all at the track as soon as possible.”

Baldwin is best known for his work as a NASCAR Cup Series crew chief. His drivers won five races in 629 starts. His most notable victory came in the 2022 Daytona 500 with Ward Burton. He launched his own race team in 2009, Tommy Baldwin Racing. That team ran 425 races in NASCAR’s top series from 2009 through 2020, fielding cars for drivers that included Alex Bowman, Danica Patrick and Reed Sorenson.

Most recently, Baldwin has been serving as competition director for Rick Ware Racing, and fielding a NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour team.

The NASCAR community reached out to offer its support for Baldwin.

[Tommy Baldwin Racing]

About Arthur Weinstein

Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.

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