A confirmed diagnosis of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in NASCAR legend Fred Lorenzen is bringing renewed attention to the long-term effects of repeated head impacts and the importance of concussion research.
Lorenzen, a 26-time NASCAR Cup Series winner and 1965 Daytona 500 champion, died in December 2024 at age 89 after living with dementia for approximately 20 years.
In October 2026, researchers at Boston University's CTE Center confirmed that Lorenzen had Stage 3 CTE, making him the first NASCAR driver known to have received a confirmed diagnosis.
CTE is a neurodegenerative disease associated with repeated head impacts. Currently, it can only be definitively diagnosed through an examination of brain tissue after death.
Following the announcement, Lorenzen's family committed $1 million to the Concussion & CTE Foundation to support research and help racing families affected by possible long-term brain injuries.
“My dad’s dementia care came at a significant financial and emotional cost to our family,” said his son, Chris Lorenzen.
The family also approached NASCAR about supporting additional research into the long-term effects of head injuries. NASCAR declined the proposed financial partnership, citing a different approach to advancing its existing research efforts.
NASCAR has invested in driver safety, including concussion protocols, helmet improvements, and research partnerships with institutions such as Wake Forest University School of Medicine.
However, Lorenzen's diagnosis has raised additional questions about the care and support available to drivers after retirement.
The issue extends beyond motorsports. Across competitive athletics, healthcare professionals continue to study the potential long-term consequences of repeated head impacts and how to better protect athletes throughout their lives.
For Athletic Trainers and other sports medicine professionals, the story reinforces an important principle: concussion management isn't just about determining when an athlete can safely return to competition.
It's also about recognizing the importance of protecting their long-term health.
Through their donation, the Lorenzen family hopes to advance research and provide support for athletes and families facing the challenges of brain injuries long after their playing careers have ended.