When Dale Earnhardt Jr. takes the track at Talladega Superspeedway for the final time in his full-time Cup Series career, he'll be doing so on Dale Earnhardt Jr. Day in Alabama.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey declared Sunday, Oct. 15 as "Dale Earnhardt Jr. Day" in the state, and she will also be the grand marshal for the race on Sunday afternoon. She said Earnhardt has been a positive role model for fans across the state.
"Nowhere else in the world are there more Dale Earnhardt Jr. fans than in the state of Alabama," Ivey said. "He has always made it clear of his love for Talladega Superspeedway and the millions of fans that lay claim to him as their favorite NASCAR driver. He has been an impressive, positive role model for so many and we are proud to honor him this weekend at Talladega Superspeedway, but also across the entire state."
Related: Dale Jr. wants NASCAR to make some immediate changes following a crash-filled Charlotte practice
Earnhardt has won six times at Talladega, including four straight between 2001 and 2005.
"Some places you feel almost like you're at home... And this is one of 'em."
Thank you for everything, @DaleJr.#Alabama500 #Appreci88ion pic.twitter.com/uHUFcqiYkA
— Talladega Superspeedway (@TALLADEGA) October 9, 2017
Sunday's race begins at 2 p.m. ET, and it should be one of the best of the season considering what's at stake along with the celebration of Earnhardt.
(h/t Jalopnik)