Charlie Henderson’s passing marks the end of a significant chapter in NASCAR history. But what he built—both on and off the track—will continue to inspire future generations of racers and team owners
His story is one of perseverance, loyalty, and a relentless love for the sport.
As tributes like Kligerman’s pour in, it’s clear that Henderson’s influence cannot be measured by race results or championship banners alone.
It lives in the countless lives he touched, the careers he helped shape, and the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy that will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Charlie Henderson. Your race was run with honor.
Daniel Suárez’s win in the Chilango 200 was more than just a comeback from the 39th position. It was a career-defining, home-soil triumph that resonated far beyond the racetrack.
His ability to execute under pressure, the unity displayed by teams across NASCAR, and the support from fellow racers like Parker Kligerman turned this event into a landmark moment.
As Suárez continues to grow as a driver and an icon, and as NASCAR looks to broaden its horizons, one thing is clear: the weekend in Mexico wasn’t just successful — it was historic.
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Parker Kligerman: Remembering Charlie Henderson
Charlie Henderson, one of NASCAR’s longest-tenured and most respected team owners, passed away on Saturday, marking the end of a remarkable era in the sport.1
A longtime Abingdon, Virginia resident and dedicated racing figure, Henderson was more than just a team owner—he was a mentor, a visionary, and a guiding force in the careers of many drivers, including Parker Kligerman.
His passing left a profound void in the NASCAR community, especially for those closest to him.
In a heartfelt tribute, Parker Kligerman shared his thoughts and memories on social media, offering fans a glimpse into the character and spirit of a man who lived and breathed racing.
This article pays homage to Henderson’s incredible legacy, chronicling his journey through the sport and the impact he had on those around him.
From Kingsport Speedway to NASCAR Glory: The Early Years of Charlie Henderson
Charlie Henderson began his racing journey in 1975 at Kingsport Speedway, located in Tennessee.
His passion for motorsports led him to transition from a driver to a team owner, and by 1982, he had launched Henderson Motorsports.
His leap into NASCAR came during a transformative period for the sport, and Henderson quickly became known as a dedicated and hands-on team owner who genuinely cared for the people who worked with him.
Unlike many owners who stepped back from the technical side, Henderson remained deeply involved in the daily operations and technical demands of racing. His small team became synonymous with grit, determination, and consistency, often outperforming expectations despite limited resources.
The Birth and Evolution of Henderson Motorsports
Henderson Motorsports officially debuted in 1982 and competed across all three of NASCAR’s national series: the Cup Series, the Xfinity Series, and the Truck Series.
Over the span of four decades, the team participated in 431 races—a testament to their perseverance in an ever-evolving sport.
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31 Cup Series entries gave them brief but proud moments on NASCAR’s biggest stage.
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298 races in the Xfinity Series helped the team develop young talent and stay relevant through various generations of racing.
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108 Truck Series races showcased their growing competitiveness in the modern era.
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Henderson Motorsports even made a single appearance in the ARCA Racing Series, further illustrating the team’s diverse commitment to motorsports.
The #75 Chevrolet Silverado, the team’s flagship entry in the Truck Series, became an iconic sight for fans of underdog stories and hard-nosed racing.
Parker Kligerman’s Emotional Tribute
A Bond Beyond Racing
One of the most emotional responses to Henderson’s passing came from Parker Kligerman, who raced for Henderson Motorsports between 2016 and 2023 and returned in 2024 as a full-time driver.2
His tribute highlighted not only the professional relationship they shared but also the personal support that Henderson and his family offered during Kligerman’s challenging times.
“Charlie and his family, in some of my tougher moments in my racing career, have always been there to give me a shot and truly believed in me when many others didn’t,” Kligerman shared on X (formerly Twitter).
Kligerman’s words revealed the unwavering belief Henderson had in his drivers, often investing in them even when financial returns were uncertain.
He recounted how Charlie would constantly push the team to improve by asking, “What do you need to win?”—a simple yet powerful phrase that embodied his competitive spirit and passion.
Wild race but what a drive by @Daniel_SuarezG in front of the home crowd. Once he got to the lead – absolutely flawless
Fun times down here for my first time in Mexico! Thanks to the wonderful people of this country for making it such a warm welcome 🤙
— Parker Kligerman (@pkligerman) June 15, 2025
A Mentor, a Leader, and a Racer at Heart
Charlie Henderson wasn’t just a figurehead for a team—he was a hands-on leader who treated his team like family.
Despite being the second-oldest active team owner in NASCAR, behind only the legendary Wood Brothers, Henderson’s enthusiasm never waned.
He understood that NASCAR was more than just a business—it was about community, dedication, and heart. His leadership style was defined by personal connections, long-term trust, and a willingness to give people a chance, especially when others wouldn’t.
His influence extended beyond victories or sponsorship deals; it lived in the values he instilled in his drivers and crew members. He didn’t chase fame—he built a legacy.
The Heart of a Small Team with a Big Spirit
In an era where large teams dominate the sport with endless resources, Henderson Motorsports remained a beacon of resilience. They proved that a well-run, passionate operation could still make an impact in NASCAR’s fiercely competitive environment.
The team’s continued presence in the Truck Series is a testament to that ethos. Whether it was the part-time stints of Patrick Emerling or the full-time efforts with Parker Kligerman, the team never lost its identity as a tight-knit unit fueled by passion and loyalty.
Their operations often relied on finding the perfect balance between performance and sustainability—a challenge Henderson embraced with open arms. Even when the odds were stacked against them, they pressed forward, driven by Charlie’s unwavering commitment.
Parker Kligerman: Carrying the Legacy Forward
With Charlie Henderson’s passing, the future of Henderson Motorsports will enter a new chapter. But thanks to the foundations he built, the team is poised to carry on his legacy with pride.3
As Parker Kligerman and others within the organization continue to race under the Henderson banner, they do so with the spirit of a man who loved racing as much as life itself.
It’s likely that his presence will continue to be felt in every turn of the track, every pit stop, and every late-night discussion about how to make the car just a little bit faster.
Tributes Pour In: The NASCAR Community Remembers
Following the announcement of Henderson’s death, social media was filled with heartfelt tributes from fans, drivers, and teams alike.
Many praised his humility, his kindness, and his commitment to the sport, especially at a grassroots level.
Though never the loudest voice in the room, Charlie’s actions spoke volumes.
His decision to stay loyal to his drivers, even during tough times, exemplified the kind of person he was—steadfast, generous, and unafraid to go against the grain.
In Parker Kligerman, a Living Tribute
Perhaps no one better symbolizes Henderson’s legacy than Parker Kligerman. His return to Henderson Motorsports this season is more than just a racing story—it’s a full-circle moment.
Kligerman’s success on the track and his consistent admiration for Henderson off of it serve as a living tribute to the man who gave him—and many others—a chance when the racing world seemed to have closed its doors.
“Together we have done some incredible things!” Kligerman wrote. “It was all led by Charlie.”
Their bond serves as a reminder that NASCAR isn’t just about engines and tires—it’s about the people who make the sport meaningful.
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Parker Kligerman Praises Daniel Suarez After Emotional Xfinity Victory in Mexico
Daniel Suárez delivered a stirring performance at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, capturing a remarkable victory in the Chilango 200 in front of an electrified home crowd.
Starting from the 39th position, Suárez surged to the front, leaving fans in awe and fellow drivers full of admiration.
Among those applauding his effort was Parker Kligerman, who took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to share a heartfelt congratulation.
Let’s dive into the full scope of Suárez’s unforgettable win and Kligerman’s classy gesture, along with the broader impact of this moment on NASCAR’s growing international footprint.
A Star Emerges from the Back: Daniel Suárez’s Stunning Climb
Starting a race from 39th out of 40 cars is no small mountain to climb. It requires talent, patience, timing, and nerves of steel.
Daniel Suárez possessed all that and more during Saturday’s Xfinity Series race. Piloting the No. 99 car for JR Motorsports — a one-race deal that reunited him with the series — Suárez methodically worked his way up the field, using every bit of experience and track knowledge to outmaneuver his competitors.
By the final stage, Suárez had surged into the top five and was knocking on the door of victory. Once he gained the lead, he never looked back. His dominance in the closing laps left no doubt: this was a homecoming for the ages.
Parker Kligerman’s Applause: A True Sportsman’s Gesture
Soon after the checkered flag waved, Parker Kligerman — a respected driver and analyst in the NASCAR world — posted a message on X.
His words captured both admiration for Suárez and appreciation for the passionate Mexican fanbase:
“Wild race but what a drive by @Daniel_SuarezG in front of the home crowd. Once he got to the lead – absolutely flawless. Fun times down here for my first time in Mexico! Thanks to the wonderful people of this country for making it such a warm welcome.”
Kligerman’s note wasn’t just a congratulation. It also highlighted the warmth and enthusiasm of the Mexican racing community, which has long supported Suárez and motorsports more broadly.
For Kligerman, who was racing in Mexico for the first time, it was a special weekend made even more memorable by Suárez’s brilliance.
The Significance of a Home Victory
For Daniel Suárez, this wasn’t just another win — it was the win. Racing in front of his countrymen and family, at a track that helped shape his early career, added emotional weight to the occasion.
When Suárez climbed out of the car to a roar of approval, the moment was deeply symbolic: a Mexican-born driver had returned home and delivered victory at the highest level of NASCAR’s second-tier series.
Mexico has a rich racing tradition, from Formula 1 legends like the Rodríguez brothers to rising international stars like Sergio “Checo” Pérez. Suárez’s win adds another chapter to that legacy — and provides a huge boost for NASCAR’s growth in Latin America.
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Trackhouse Racing and JR Motorsports: A Unique Partnership
Saturday’s win was a rare crossover moment. Though Daniel Suárez is primarily known for his Cup Series rides with Trackhouse Racing, he competed in this one-off Xfinity race under the JR Motorsports banner.
This collaboration allowed Suárez to race competitively in his home country without compromising his Cup Series commitments.
It also showcased the flexibility and unity within the NASCAR community. Teams came together to make the most of this international event, and the outcome — Suárez’s victory — was a huge payoff for everyone involved.
Taylor Gray and Austin Hill Round Out the Podium
- While Suárez stole the headlines, credit must be given to the two drivers who chased him to the line: Taylor Gray and Austin Hill.
- Both young talents showed strong pace throughout the event and were in contention during the final laps.
- Gray, in particular, is quickly establishing himself as a driver to watch in the Xfinity Series.
- Austin Hill, known for his aggressive but calculated driving, also had a strong showing, finishing third.
- Both drivers earned valuable experience racing on an international road course, and their presence on the podium only added to the credibility and competitiveness of the event.
- Suárez’s weekend wasn’t over with Saturday’s win. The No. 99 driver suited up again for the Viva Mexico 250, a Cup Series race held at the same venue on Sunday.
- Expectations were high, and Suárez carried tremendous momentum into the event.
- Fans were eager to see whether lightning could strike twice — and Suárez, now brimming with confidence, had the chance to etch his name even deeper into NASCAR lore by delivering back-to-back wins in front of his hometown supporters.
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