It’s been 18 years since Jimmy Spencer last competed in a NASCAR Cup Series race, but throughout his 30-year racing career he made unforgettable impressions on race fans everywhere. To honor the driver who was known as “Mr. Excitement” during his racing days, he has been named Speedway Legend for Las Vegas Motor Speedway in 2025.
Spencer joins other luminaries Mark Martin, Rusty Wallace and Ken Schrader who have been honored at LVMS. Spencer will take part in many fan events during next fall’s Oct. 10-12 South Point 400 weekend.
“I’m humbled and honored that Las Vegas Motor Speedway is recognizing me, as well as many others, for our accomplishments in NASCAR,” Spencer said. “I always loved coming to Las Vegas, whether it be for racing or fun. It’ll be great to spend some time with both our long-time fans and the new fans of the sport next fall.”
Spencer’s victory in the 1998 NASCAR Xfinity (then Busch) Series race at LVMS was one of the most memorable of his career as he held off a young Dale Earnhardt Jr. over the final few laps. Earnhardt was making a valiant bid for his first career triumph in that series.
“Jimmy was a big fan favorite during his racing days,” LVMS President Chris Powell said. “Jimmy was a guy the fans always watched, no matter where he was in the field. He really lived up to the nickname ‘Mr. Excitement,’ both in and out of the race car. We’re looking forward to having him out next year, and I know the fans will enjoy spending some time with him.”
Spencer is one of 40 drivers who have won races in all three of NASCAR’s top series, including Cup wins at Daytona and Talladega.
