History of Rick Hendrick in Timeline

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

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

July 12, 1949: Rick Hendrick Born

On July 12, 1949, Joseph Riddick "Rick" Hendrick III was born. He would later become a prominent American businessman known for owning the NASCAR team Hendrick Motorsports.

Others born on this day/year

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.

December 1997: Sentencing for Mail Fraud

In December 1997, Rick Hendrick was sentenced for mail fraud, receiving a $250,000 fine, 12 months' home confinement, three years probation, and restrictions on his involvement with Hendrick Automotive Group and Hendrick Motorsports.

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.

December 2000: Presidential Pardon

In December 2000, Rick Hendrick received a full pardon from President Bill Clinton, effectively clearing his record of the mail fraud conviction.

2003: NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship

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

2004: Death of Ricky Hendrick

In 2004, Rick Hendrick's son, Ricky Hendrick, a former NASCAR driver, tragically died in a plane crash along with other members of the Hendrick family and Hendrick Motorsports crew members.

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.

October 31, 2011: Plane Crash in Key West

On October 31, 2011, Rick Hendrick and his wife, Linda, were involved in a plane crash in Key West, Florida. Linda sustained minor injuries, while Rick suffered three broken ribs and a fractured clavicle.

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.