Jon Edwards: The Legacy of a NASCAR Icon

The NASCAR community is mourning the untimely loss of Jon Edwards, a veteran public relations strategist and Director of Racing Communications at Hendrick Motorsports (HMS). Edwards, who passed away on April 10, 2025, at the age of 53, left behind an indelible mark on the sport through his professionalism, dedication, and ability to foster meaningful connections. His passing has shaken not only HMS but the entire NASCAR world.

A Career Built on Excellence

Jon Edwards began his journey in motorsports while attending the University of North Carolina in the 1990s. His career took off when he joined Performance PR Plus in 1994, where he became an integral part of DuPont Motorsports and Jeff Gordon’s team. By 2000, Edwards was embedded with Gordon’s team and officially joined Jeff Gordon, Inc. in 2011. After Gordon’s retirement, Edwards transitioned to work with Kyle Larson at HMS, playing a pivotal role in Larson’s comeback after his suspension in 2020. In their first year together, Larson won the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Championship.

Edwards was widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in NASCAR public relations. He earned accolades such as the prestigious Jim Chapman Award in 2014 for excellence in motorsports PR—an honor that recognized his integrity and contributions to media relations. Throughout his career, Edwards was twice named NASCAR’s “Most Valuable PR Representative,” solidifying his reputation as a consummate professional.

Shaping Jeff Gordon’s Legacy

Jon Edwards was more than a PR representative; he was instrumental in shaping Jeff Gordon’s public image and legacy. For nearly three decades, Edwards worked alongside Gordon through every high and low, helping him secure four Cup Series championships and global superstardom. Gordon credited Edwards for his immeasurable impact on both his career and personal life. “He was one of the most loyal, hardworking, and selfless people I’ve ever known,” Gordon expressed in a heartfelt tribute.

Edwards’ efforts extended beyond managing media appearances; he built trust with journalists and fans alike. His open approach to working with the media benefited not only Gordon but also Hendrick Motorsports and NASCAR as a whole.

A Quiet Force Behind the Scenes

Edwards’ influence wasn’t limited to drivers like Jeff Gordon and Kyle Larson. He was known for his ability to connect with people across all levels of the sport—from pit crew members to industry executives. Many described him as a kind and thoughtful individual who treated everyone with respect. Fox Sports reporter Bob Pockrass noted that Edwards “treated everyone like they were gold,” while NASCAR journalist Jeff Gluck remembered him as “one of the best dudes around”.

His role often extended beyond traditional PR responsibilities; he was a confidant, advisor, and friend to many within the NASCAR community. As IndyCar Senior Manager Curt Cavin aptly put it: “You can’t think of Jeff’s NASCAR career without thinking about Jon Edwards”.

A Day of Loss for NASCAR

April 10, 2025, marked one of the saddest days in NASCAR history. Alongside Jon Edwards’ passing, veteran journalist Al Pearce died at 82, and Carson Hocevar announced the loss of his grandmother. The collective grief underscored Edwards’ significance within the sport. Hendrick Motorsports released a statement mourning their longtime teammate: “Above all, Jon was a kind and thoughtful person who carried a genuine passion for our industry”.

Tributes poured in from across the motorsports world. Kyle Larson shared his gratitude for their shared memories, while journalists like Mike Joy highlighted how Edwards made everyone he worked with better through his friendship.

A Lasting Legacy

For over three decades, Jon Edwards stood just outside the spotlight, ensuring others shone brighter. His contributions went far beyond press releases; he built relationships that enriched NASCAR as a whole. As the community says goodbye to this unsung hero, his legacy remains an inspiration for future generations.

RIP Jon Edwards—truly one of a kind.