As the 2026 Daytona 500 approaches, the NASCAR community prepares to observe a solemn milestone—the 25th anniversary of Dale Earnhardt's tragic passing during the Great American Race. In tribute to the legendary driver, Fox Sports has partnered with NASCAR Studios to produce a compelling documentary that examines both the man and his enduring impact on motorsports and American culture.
The feature, titled "We've Lost Dale Earnhardt: 25 Years Later", promises to deliver more than a retrospective on that fateful final lap. According to Barry Nugent, vice president of development and original programming at FOX Sports, the film explores the profound ripple effects that followed the incident and celebrates the iconic career of one of racing's most influential figures. "Fox Sports’ partnership with NASCAR allows us to tell stories that define the heart of the sport, and through this film, we are honored to spotlight Dale Earnhardt, one of the most iconic and influential figures in NASCAR, and carry his legacy forward," Nugent stated. The documentary deliberately moves beyond a single day in history to investigate how one moment forever transformed the sport and continues to shape the experiences of drivers competing today.
Directed by Justin Burnett, the production features an impressive roster of voices who provide multifaceted perspectives on Earnhardt's legacy. Former NASCAR President Mike Helton offers institutional insight into the organizational changes that followed the tragedy. Hall of Fame drivers Rusty Wallace and Kurt Busch contribute reflections from their era of competition, sharing personal memories of racing alongside the Intimidator. The narrative bridge to contemporary NASCAR is built through contributions from current Cup Series champions and stars, including Kyle Busch, Joey Logano, and Ryan Blaney, who discuss how Earnhardt's influence persists in modern racing culture and safety protocols that protect drivers today.
Viewers can mark their calendars for Thursday, February 12, 2026, when the documentary premieres at 10 p.m. Eastern Time on FS1. The timing holds special significance, as the broadcast follows immediately after the completion of the Daytona Duels—qualifying races that set the field for the main event. This scheduling creates a powerful emotional through-line for fans experiencing the full arc of Speedweek.
For those preferring streaming options, the documentary will be available on Fubo, which offers a free trial for new subscribers. This accessibility ensures that both longtime enthusiasts and newer fans can engage with this important piece of NASCAR history.
The 2026 Daytona 500, scheduled for February 15 at Daytona International Speedway in Florida, serves as the backdrop for this commemoration. Coverage of the race itself will begin at 2:30 p.m. ET on Fox, with the veteran broadcast team of Mike Joy, Clint Bowyer, and Kevin Harvick calling the action. The documentary effectively sets the stage for this marquee event, reminding audiences of the fine line between glory and tragedy that defines motorsports.
Earnhardt's death on the final lap of the 2001 Daytona 500 catalyzed revolutionary safety advancements in NASCAR. Within years, the sport mandated head-and-neck restraint devices, implemented SAFER barriers at tracks, and completely redesigned vehicles with the Car of Tomorrow program. These innovations have undoubtedly saved numerous lives in the decades since. The documentary explores this critical legacy, demonstrating how loss can drive progress.
Beyond safety, Earnhardt's cultural impact remains immeasurable. With seven championships and 76 victories, his aggressive driving style and charismatic personality helped elevate NASCAR from regional pastime to national phenomenon. The film captures this transformation through archival footage and intimate interviews, showing how the man from Kannapolis, North Carolina, became a global icon.
The production also addresses the emotional aftermath experienced by the NASCAR family. Drivers, crew members, and officials who were present that day share their recollections, providing viewers with an unvarnished look at how the sport grieved and ultimately found the resolve to continue. This human element distinguishes the documentary from simple historical recounting, making it a testament to resilience and community.
As Speedweek unfolds, fans will have multiple opportunities to engage with Earnhardt's memory. From the Duels on Thursday to the main event on Sunday, each race carries the weight of history. The documentary serves as both educational piece for newcomers and emotional touchstone for those who remember exactly where they were when the news broke.
The inclusion of current stars like Logano and Blaney highlights a crucial theme: Earnhardt's influence transcends generations. These drivers, many of whom were children when he died, grew up idolizing the Intimidator and now carry his lessons into their own championship pursuits. Their participation ensures the documentary speaks to today's audience while honoring yesterday's hero.
In crafting this tribute, Fox Sports and NASCAR Studios have created something more than a memorial—they've produced a historical document that examines progress, legacy, and the enduring spirit of competition. The film acknowledges that while the sport lost a giant 25 years ago, it gained a guardian angel whose memory continues to protect and inspire.
For NASCAR fans, February 12 represents an appointment viewing opportunity. Whether watching on FS1 or streaming via Fubo, audiences will experience a production that balances reverence with honesty, celebrating a life that burned bright and a legacy that continues to illuminate the path forward. The documentary reminds us that true legends never truly leave—they become part of the very fabric of the sport they helped build, guiding future generations toward both greatness and responsibility.