Former Texas Motor Speedway president Eddie Gossage has died at age 65

FORWARD WORTH – Speedway Motorsports shared the news of the passing of North Texas legend Eddie Gossage on Thursday afternoon.

The motorsports promoter and former president of Texas Motor Speedway died at the age of 65.

Gossage died on the eve of the 40th NASCAR All-Star Race weekend.

“Today we lost one of the greatest racing fans in the world,” said Marcus Smith, president and CEO of Speedway Motorsports. “From his legendary promotions to the lasting relationships he has built across the sports and entertainment industries, Eddie Gossage has meant so much to the world of motorsports.”

Gossage is known in North Texas as the first general manager of the Texas Motor Speedway.

“Eddie Gossage was a trailblazer, supporter and innovator at a time when it was critical to gain attention as Speedway Motorsports expanded NASCAR to the Lone Star State,” said Mark Faber, executive vice president and general manager of Texas Motor Speedway.

Gossage had overseen the Texas Motor Speedway facility for its first 25 racing seasons. He had been doing this since breaking ground in 1995 about 20 miles north of downtown Fort Worth. The first race took place at the facility two years later.

Gossage worked for Speedway Motorsports for 32 years. He previously worked for Nashville International Raceway, Bristol International Raceway and Miller Brewing Co. in motorsports management and public relations. He joined Speedway Motorsports in Charlotte in 1989.

“Every day I come to work I see the impact he has had on our entire property. “Eddie laid the foundation for success for future generations to build on and made Texas Motor Speedway a venue that Texans will always be proud of,” said Faber.

Funeral arrangements for Gossage will be announced at a later date.