One of the most popular drivers in NASCAR, Dale Earnhardt Jr., will retire following the conclusion of the 2017 season.

Hendrick Motorsports made the announcement on their official website Tuesday morning (4/25):

After 18 seasons and more than 600 races behind the wheel, Dale Earnhardt Jr. will bring his NASCAR Cup Series driving career to a close at the conclusion of 2017. Today, he shared the news with members of his No. 88 Hendrick Motorsports team.

You can read the full press release from Hendrick Motorsports HERE.

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