Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Rick Hendrick

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 12, 2025

How Rick Hendrick built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Rick Hendrick is a prominent American businessman recognized primarily as the owner of Hendrick Motorsports, a leading NASCAR team. He's also a co-owner of JR Motorsports. Beyond motorsports, Hendrick is the founder of Hendrick Automotive Group, the largest privately held dealership group in the United States, demonstrating significant success in the automotive industry. His accomplishments span both the racing world and the business sector.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

1976: Purchase of Chevrolet Franchise

In 1976, Rick Hendrick sold his assets to purchase a Chevrolet franchise in Bennettsville, South Carolina, making him the youngest Chevrolet dealer in the United States.

1984: Founding of All-Star Racing

In 1984, Rick Hendrick founded All-Star Racing, which is now known as Hendrick Motorsports. The team started with five full-time employees and a single NASCAR Winston Cup team.

1987: Winston Cup Series Race

In 1987, Rick Hendrick drove in a race during the Winston Cup Series, finishing 33rd.

1988: Winston Cup Series Race

In 1988, Rick Hendrick drove in a race during the Winston Cup Series, finishing fifteenth.

1997: Hendrick Marrow Program

In 1997, Rick Hendrick began the Hendrick Marrow Program, a non-profit that works with the Be The Match Foundation to support the National Marrow Donor Program.

2003: NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship

In 2003, Rick Hendrick's team won the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship with Brian Vickers.

2009: Hendrick Automotive Group Revenue

In 2009, the Hendrick Automotive Group, under Rick Hendrick's leadership, achieved a revenue in excess of US$3.5 billion, selling 100,000 vehicles and servicing 1.5 million.

2017: Induction into NASCAR Hall of Fame

In 2017, Rick Hendrick was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, marking a significant achievement in recognition of his contributions to the sport.

December 13, 2018: Jeff Gordon to Replace Rick Hendrick

On December 13, 2018, Rick Hendrick announced that when he retires as owner of Hendrick Motorsports, plans are in the works for Jeff Gordon to replace him.

2020: Induction into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America

In 2020, Rick Hendrick was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, further solidifying his legacy in the world of motorsports.

2024: Hendrick Motorsports' Success in NASCAR Cup Series

As of 2024, Rick Hendrick's team, Hendrick Motorsports, has achieved the distinction of being the winningest team owner in NASCAR, with a total of 304 NASCAR Cup Series races won.