On September 10, 2025, the political world was shaken by the tragic assassination of conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, Charlie Kirk, during a live event at Utah Valley University. As he addressed a student audience, a single shot rang out from a nearby rooftop, fatally wounding him in the neck. Despite the immediate medical attention, Kirk, 31, was pronounced dead at Timpanogos Regional Hospital shortly after. The death sent shockwaves across America.

Former NASCAR driver Danica Patrick attended a Turning Point USA event in 2023, which she earlier described as her “red pill” moment, leading her to become more active in political discourse. Patrick has since been involved in supporting conservative causes and has emphasized the importance of faith, family, and unity in the face of adversity. But her current tribute said a lot about her bond with Kirk over the years.

Danica Patrick pledges to continue Charlie Kirk’s mission

Danica Patrick shared a heartfelt note on X, stating, “I don’t know where to start…. @charliekirk1776 was a great American, husband, father, leader, man of faith, business man, boss, speaker, and inspiration to millions… It’s in times like these that we have to look at humanity and ask why these things happen and then the most important question…..what do we do next? I don’t have the answer… And maybe I could also say… Charlie, help us from heaven… as his energy for gods work never seemed to run out.” It reminded readers that Kirk’s work targeted campuses and young voters, a detail explaining why public figures across sports and media responded so visibly.

In another post on X, she continued to share the sentiment, writing, “I got into politics because of @charliekirk1776. It truly was my turning point. Amfest was my first political event December of 2023, with my sister. The backlash I got for attending lit a fire under my a– and I spoke the next year at the same event on top of campaigning for @realdonaldtrump. I will speak again in 2025. I am not sure what to expect, other than one thing…where Charlie left off, we will continue. With all that we have.” During her 2024 AmFest address, Patrick shared her experiences and insights, emphasizing the importance of truth and moral clarity in politics. She also expressed her intention to speak again at AmFest 2025, underscoring her dedication to the causes Kirk championed. 

Several NASCAR teams carried memorial decals. For instance, Richard Childress Racing added an “In Memory of Charlie Kirk (1993–2025)” sticker to the #3, #21, and #8 cars of Austin Dillon, Austin Hill, and Kyle Busch, respectively, and Dillon also spoke about the decision and his personal respect for Kirk’s faith and work. “First of all, it’s a tragic incident, where a man, his life was taken and he leaves behind two children and a wife. And I look up to his heroism when it comes to standing for God. And I love some of his teachings of the Bible, his ability to debate without really attacking someone,” said Dillon.

Other NASCAR insiders, like Steven Taranto, also reported the tributes flowing in ahead of the weekend’s races. In a post on X, he wrote, “Bristol Motor Speedway just held a moment of silence before tonight’s NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race in memory of conservative political activist Charlie Kirk. Others were also honored, namely those lost on 9/11 and area racing figures who have recently passed.” 

The tribute at Bristol was not an isolated event. Similar honors were observed across the country. At Yankee Stadium, the New York Yankees held a pregame moment of silence and lowered flags to half-staff in memory of Kirk. Additionally, during the NFL game between the Green Bay Packers and the Washington Commanders at Lambeau Field, both teams observed a moment of silence to honor the victims of 9/11 and Charlie Kirk.

These actions highlight NASCAR and the larger sport’s community’s dedication to recognizing influential figures and fostering an environment of mutual respect. By coming together to honor Charlie Kirk, NASCAR has demonstrated that the sport transcends competition, serving as a platform for unity and remembrance.

Remembering Charlie Kirk through NASCAR’s eyes

The NASCAR community was quick to express its grief, with tributes pouring in that reflected the collective shock felt across the garage. Brad Keselowski captured the raw emotional whiplash many were experiencing, posting, “Opening up this app feels like a dangerous game- One day inspiring and the next day heartbreaking. Both just make me want to hug the family.” His words resonated deeply, highlighting the tight-knit bonds that unite the paddock in times of off-track tragedy.

Echoing this sentiment, Noah Gragson offered a direct and heartfelt response: “Disturbed. Praying for Charlie.” Ricky Stenhouse Jr. added, “Very sad day, prayers for his family and our country,” while Shannon Spake reflected, “I have 15-year-old boys who are asking questions about tragedies like this. Senseless. Hateful. Heartbreaking. How much hate must someone have in their heart to end someone’s life.” These reactions illustrate the emotional impact rippling through the racing world.

Adding a personal touch, Natalie Decker recalled, “I had the honor of meeting Charlie minutes before I was on @foxandfriends. He was nothing but kindhearted to my husband, my son, and myself. I’m at a loss for words. ‘Always pray never lose hope.’ Rest in peace, @charliekirk11.” Together, these tributes, from Keselowski’s emotional plea to Decker’s fond memory, show Kirk’s warmth and message transcended politics, leaving a lasting impression on the NASCAR community.