Longtime Texas Motor Speedway Chief Eddie Gossage Dies at 65

Eddie Gossage, the longtime head of Texas Motor Speedway and an influential promoter in motorsports, has died at the age of 65.

Gossage passed away on May 16, 2024, according to Speedway Motorsports president and CEO Marcus Smith, who praised Gossage’s legendary promotions and his deep connections within the sports and entertainment industries.

Gossage stepped down three years ago after 25 years as president of the Texas speedway, and had spent a total of 32 years working for Speedway Motorsports Inc. (SMI).

He was mentored by company founder Bruton Smith and longtime executive Humpy Wheeler, learning the art of selling tickets, packing grandstands, and creating memorable racing events.

His career took off in 1992 as a young public relations director at Charlotte Motor Speedway, where his promotional stunts made a lasting impression.

In 1995, Smith sent Gossage to Fort Worth to oversee the construction and operation of Texas Motor Speedway, which opened two years later and became a premier entertainment facility.

The 1,500-acre complex includes a 1.5-mile superspeedway, luxury suites, condominiums, the Speedway Club, office space, and the Texas Motor Speedway Dirt Track. NASCAR and IndyCar officials lauded Gossage for his passion, creativity, and dedication to fans.

Gossage was known for his flair and sometimes outrageous promotional ideas, always with the intention of enhancing the fan experience. He was a staunch supporter of the IndyCar Series, which had been a fixture at Texas Motor Speedway since it opened.

Survivors include his wife, Melinda, a daughter, a son, and three grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are pending. Texas Motor Speedway general manager Mark Faber noted Gossage’s lasting impact on the venue and his foundational role in making it a showpiece for Texas.