After Dale Earnhardt’s death in 2001, his widow, Teresa Earnhardt, faced significant scrutiny from NASCAR fans. Following the tragedy, a public feud erupted between Teresa and Earnhardt’s children, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kelley Earnhardt. The siblings sought equal ownership rights of Dale Earnhardt Inc. (DEI), their father’s racing team, but Teresa refused. She insisted DEI could “make another Dale Jr.,” leading Dale Jr. to leave his father’s racing legacy behind and join Hendrick Motorsports. This decision, and Teresa’s firm control over DEI and Earnhardt’s estate, turned her into a polarizing figure in the NASCAR community.
Teresa’s decisions have had long-lasting effects on Earnhardt’s legacy. Under her management, DEI has dwindled to little more than a museum, which many see as a diminished representation of Dale Earnhardt’s contributions to NASCAR. In addition to overseeing DEI, Teresa controlled all aspects of Earnhardt’s estate, utilizing her legal authority extensively. Some speculate she also played a role in the rebranding of the Kannapolis Intimidators, a minor league baseball team Earnhardt purchased in 2000.
Earnhardt had bought a stake in the Kannapolis, North Carolina, team—affiliated with the Chicago White Sox—shortly before his passing. The team, named Kannapolis Intimidators in his honor, remained under this brand until 2019. However, when the team planned to build a new stadium, its owners decided to rebrand as the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers. While they had Teresa’s permission to use the “Intimidators” moniker, legal limitations regarding trademarking elements of the brand forced a tough business decision. Alicia Amlin, Chief of Staff for Temerity Baseball, explained, “We wanted to be thoughtful and careful… but ultimately, it was the only practical business decision we could make.”
Despite the name change, the team found subtle ways to honor Earnhardt. The new mascot, a human figure with a baseball for a head, features a mustache reminiscent of Earnhardt’s, reflecting his legacy without being directly tied to his estate—a detail Teresa could not control.
Interestingly, recent developments suggest a thaw in relations between Teresa and Dale Jr. The latter recently acquired the rights to the iconic #8 car number, which he drove during his DEI career. Teresa had allowed the trademark on the number to expire, enabling Dale Jr. to secure it. Reflecting on the situation, Dale Jr. expressed gratitude, stating he always felt the number was safe in Teresa’s hands, even during their disagreements. This acquisition allowed Dale Jr. to showcase the famous Budweiser #8 car at a recent event at Florence Motor Speedway, rekindling fond memories for fans.
Teresa Earnhardt’s role in preserving or tarnishing Dale Earnhardt’s legacy remains a topic of debate among fans. While her control over DEI and the Earnhardt estate has drawn criticism, her recent actions, such as relinquishing the #8 number, show a more conciliatory side.