Fox Sports broadcaster Steve Byrnes, who had been battling head and neck cancer, died Tuesday morning.
Fox Sports broadcaster Steve Byrnes dies at age 56
The longtime NASCAR pit road reporter had been fighting cancer.
Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Byrnes, 56, served as pit road for Fox’s coverage of the Sprint Cup Series since 2001, when the network began covering the sport. He was also the Camping World Truck Series play-by-play announcer on Fox Sports 1, in addition to hosting auxiliary programming, including the network’s daily NASCAR show, “Race Hub.”
A popular figure in the garage, Byrnes was diagnosed with cancer in August 2013 and following treatment returned to his broadcast position for the 2014 season. He then took a leave of absence in the fall when the disease reoccurred.
“NASCAR extends its condolences to the many friends, FOX Sports colleagues and family of Steve Byrnes,” NASCAR CEO Brian France said in a statement. “Whether you had the privilege of knowing him or if you watched him on television for the last three decades, Steve’s work ethic and authenticity made him a beloved individual inside and outside the garage.”
This past weekend the NASCAR community honored Byrnes by renaming Sunday’s race at Bristol Motor Speedway the “Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes.” At the halfway mark of the event crewmembers representing every team along with fans, media and others held up a card with the words “I stand up for Steve.”
During a White House ceremony honoring defending Cup champion Kevin Harvick Tuesday, President Obama called Byrnes a “legendary reporter and broadcaster” and offered condolences to his family. Several drivers including Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Tony Stewart shared similar sentiments on Twitter.
“My hope is Steve was able to see how much he was loved & appreciated by so many,” Earnhardt tweeted. “Rest easy friend. Prayers to his family. #ByrnesStrong”
“Very sad to hear about our friend Steve Byrnes passing today,” Stewart tweeted. “Huge loss for our racing family. He was one of the best ever! We will miss you.”
Byrnes is survived by his wife of 22 years, Karen, and 12-year-old son, Bryson.
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