Darrell Waltrip Diagnosed With FTD and Possible CTE as Family Points to Injuries From Legendary NASCAR Career

NASCAR legend Darrell Waltrip is stepping further away from public life after being diagnosed with Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD), complicated by possible Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), with his family pointing to injuries sustained during his decades-long racing career as the likely source of the suspected CTE.

The 79-year-old three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and Hall of Famer is currently experiencing only 'minor noticeable symptoms,' his family said in a statement released on Wednesday. They stressed that Waltrip remains 'happy and otherwise healthy' despite the progressive nature of his condition.

Darrell Waltrip Diagnosed With FTD and Possible CTE

Waltrip's family said the former NASCAR driver 'has been diagnosed with Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD) complicated by possible Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE),' adding that the latter was 'likely from injuries incurred during his racing career.'

The distinction is significant. Waltrip has been diagnosed with FTD, while his family described CTE only as 'possible.' CTE is associated with repetitive head impacts and currently can only be definitively confirmed by examining brain tissue after death.

'While this disease will inevitably progress, thankfully it is currently limited to some minor noticeable symptoms,' Waltrip's family said.

The diagnosis means Waltrip will retreat further from the public spotlight after making only occasional NASCAR appearances in recent years.

Family Shares Darrell Waltrip Health Update

Waltrip's family offered a reassuring update about his current condition, saying he is spending his time with his wife, Stevie, their two daughters and three young grandchildren.

'Be assured, Darrell is happy and otherwise healthy,' the statement said, before the family thanked supporters for their 'continued prayer, love and support.'

They ended the announcement with the NASCAR icon's unmistakable catchphrase: 'Boogity! Boogity! Boogity!'

What Are FTD and CTE?

Frontotemporal degeneration refers to a group of disorders caused by damage to neurons in the frontal and temporal regions of the brain. Symptoms vary depending on the areas affected but can include changes in behaviour and personality, difficulties with speech and language, and movement problems, according to the US National Institutes of Health.

CTE, meanwhile, is a progressive brain disorder associated with repetitive head impacts. Because a definitive CTE diagnosis currently requires examination of the brain after death, Waltrip's suspected condition remains unconfirmed.

Inside Darrell Waltrip's Legendary NASCAR Career

Waltrip competed in NASCAR's top series from 1972 until 2000, accumulating 84 victories across 809 starts. He won three Cup Series championships in 1981, 1982 and 1985, all while driving for legendary team owner Junior Johnson.

The Kentucky native also captured the 1989 Daytona 500 and became known as 'Jaws' because of his outspoken personality. His combination of success and showmanship helped make him one of NASCAR's most recognisable figures. He was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2012.

From NASCAR Champion to 'Boogity!' Broadcaster

Following his retirement as a driver in 2000, Waltrip joined Fox Sports' NASCAR coverage in 2001 and spent 19 seasons in the broadcast booth before retiring from the role in 2019.

His exuberant 'Boogity! Boogity! Boogity! Let's go racing, boys!' became synonymous with Fox's NASCAR broadcasts and helped carry Waltrip's larger-than-life racing persona into a second career on television.