Ford statement on Dale Earnhardt

DAN DAVIS, Director of Ford Racing Technology

"On behalf of Ford Motor Company, I want to extend our deepest sympathies to Teresa and the entire Earnhardt family on the loss of one of racing's greatest competitors.

"Like many others, we were fans of Dale Earnhardt -- certainly the driver, but especially the man. In spite of our intense rivalry, Dale Earnhardt has been a great friend to us and to all who have helped to make this sport great. Dale Earnhardt transcended NASCAR. His loss will have an effect on racing and its fans worldwide.

"I'm not sure you can measure the impact of what he meant to racing in this country because when you picture the epitome of a race car driver, you picture Dale Earnhardt.

"We're deeply saddened by this loss. Again, our condolences go out to the Earnhardt family and to those legion of supporters who have cheered for this great champion through the years."

-FRT-