NASCAR Legend Fred Lorenzen First Diagnosed With CTE

NASCAR legend Fred Lorenzen, who won Daytona 500 in 1965, becomes first known driver with CTE.

Oct 20, 2026

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NASCAR Legend Fred Lorenzen First Diagnosed With CTE

NASCAR legend Fred Lorenzen, who won Daytona 500 in 1965, becomes first known driver with CTE.

In brief

NASCAR legend Fred Lorenzen, who won Daytona 500 in 1965, becomes first known driver with CTE. NASCAR legend Fred Lorenzen was diagnosed with stage 3 CTE before his death in 2024, making him the first known driver with the condition. Originally reported by Valleynewslive.

Fred Lorenzen's CTE Diagnosis

FILE - In this Feb. 14, 1965, file photo, Fred Lorenzen, of Elmhurst, Ill., gives a victory...

NASCAR legend Fred Lorenzen became the first NASCAR driver officially diagnosed with stage 3 CTE before his death in 2024 at 89.

Family's Response to Diagnosis

Lorenzen's daughter Amanda said his dementia struggle lasted 20 years before diagnosis and caused significant family hardship.

NASCAR's Inaction on CTE

NASCAR declined to join family efforts after CTE diagnosis, despite requests for research support.

Lorenzen's Legacy and Impact

Lorenzen's Legacy and Impact

Lorenzen donated $1 million to CTE research and established a helpline to help drivers and families navigate CTE.

Here's the gist

NASCAR legend Fred Lorenzen was diagnosed with stage 3 CTE before his death in 2024, making him the first known driver with the condition.

Read the original on Valleynewslive

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