UPDATE – Monday, August 21st at 11:30 AM ET:
On Monday, NASCAR released a statement on Tommy Baldwin’s cancer diagnosis, saying: “Tommy Baldwin Jr. is a fighter, and NASCAR joins him in this fight, and fully supports his decision to concentrate on his treatment. We wish him well, and our thoughts and prayers are with Tommy and his loved ones at this time.”
Following Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series event at Watkins Glen International, Tommy Baldwin, a long-time team owner and a race-winning crew chief at NASCAR’s top level, revealed that he was battling cancer.
In a statement posted to social media, Baldwin said: “Today, I post the news that no one ever wants to hear… I have cancer. It’s treatable, but this week of racing will be the last for a while for the Tommy Baldwin Racing team. Going to take a break and begin treatment to beat it into the ground.”
Baldwin, who was named the Competition Director of NASCAR Cup Series team Rick Ware Racing in April, is a five-time winner as a crew chief in the NASCAR Cup Series, including a victory in the 2002 Daytona 500 with Ward Burton and Bill Davis Racing.
— Tommy Baldwin Racing (@TBR7NY) August 20, 2023
Debuting in the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2001, Tommy Baldwin Racing made sporadic appearances across NASCAR’s top-two divisions, most recently returning for a part-time stint in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2020, with numerous drivers.
“This is not a post for pity. I want to let the world know that if you don’t feel right, go get checked out by a doctor now,” Baldwin continued in his statement. “Don’t wait. If I can save one life by posting this, I have done my job. Never be scared to go see the doctor – it could save your life.”
Baldwin’s organization continues to compete in the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour with the No. 7NY, but will be taking a hiatus as Baldwin battles against cancer.
“I will beat this challenge like every other. The grind begins now. Thanks to everyone for the support. See you all at the track as soon as possible.”
