The NASCAR world is grieving the passing of Chase Pistone, a respected driver and mentor who died at the age of 42. Known for his lifelong dedication to racing, Pistone built a notable NASCAR legacy through his success on short-tracks and professional series competition.
Pistone’s impact extended across several top racing circuits, including the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, the ARCA Menards Series, and the NASCAR Xfinity Series. His profound connection to the sport, combined with his competitive edge, made him a standout figure within the racing community.
Chase Pistone’s Racing Career and Family Heritage
Coming from a family deeply rooted in stock car racing, Chase was the grandson of Tom Pistone, a two-time winner in the NASCAR Cup Series who competed from 1955 to 1986. Chase made his NASCAR debut in 2005 and last competed in 2014 at the VisitMyrtleBeach.com 300 event. Throughout his career, he drove the No. 31 car and earned respect for his skill and determination among his fellow drivers.
Even after retiring from active competition, Pistone’s passion for racing remained strong as he transitioned into team ownership. Through his company, Chase Pistone Inc., he helped build highly competitive Late Model and Legends stock cars that frequently left tracks with victory trophies.
Commitment to Mentorship and Driver Development
Beyond his achievements behind the wheel, Pistone became a dedicated mentor, guiding emerging talent in the racing world. His efforts to coach and teach younger drivers highlighted his lifelong commitment to the sport and the next generation of competitors.
Tragic Death and Community Reactions
The news of Chase Pistone’s passing was shared by his brother, Nick Pistone, who expressed his heartbreak and profound loss on social media:
Well, my young brother and best friend is gone. I’m broken hearted and don’t know if I’ll ever get over this. I miss you already Chase and I hope you are you are in a better place. I love you and I miss you so much already!
— Nick Pistone
While the official cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline was shared by family members through the Legends Nation Facebook account. Alongside this resource, they acknowledged Chase’s dominance on the track through his Legends team:
Chase was not only a wheelman in Legends and Late Models, but his Chase Pistone Inc. Legends team was a force to be reckoned with every time they showed up at a track, and they usually walked away with the winner’s trophy.
— Nick and Tom Pistone
The tragedy has resonated across the NASCAR community, including with current driver Bubba Wallace of 23XI Racing, who revealed on social media that Pistone’s death was a suicide. Wallace shared a message reflecting on the emotional impact:
Been in the feels. Woke up Sunday morning at 2 a.m. wide awake, stumbled across an old tune that shook me. Only to realize later on at 2 a.m. was when the shooting happened in Austin. A guy I raced with in legends cars took his life today.. Just a lot of damn sadness man.
— Bubba Wallace
Legacy and Call for Awareness
Chase Pistone leaves behind a significant legacy through his racing career, his successful team ownership, and his work mentoring younger drivers. The loss has sparked reflection within the racing community about mental health and the pressures faced by athletes. Support organizations encourage anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts to reach out for help immediately.
If you or anyone you know needs assistance, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available at 800-273-TALK (8255), or the Crisis Text Line can be reached by texting 741741.
Been in the feels..
Woke up Sunday morning at 2am wide awake.. stumbled across an old tune that shook me. Only to realize later on at 2am was when the shooting happened in Austin..
A guy I raced with in legends cars took his life today..
Just a lot of damn sadness man..
— Bubba Wallace (@BubbaWallace) March 3, 2026
