dale jr. has gone on to become one of the biggest names in sports history, winner of 26 races over his career including two at daytona where his father passed away. fans voted him most popular driver 15 consecutive seasons before his retirement in 2017. after the plane crash, the strong nascar community, the drivers, fans, flooding social media with tweets of relief and gratitude that dale jr. and his family are okay. they were all discharged from the hospital on thursday. a statement said, quote, we're extremely relieved to learn that dale, amy, ailah are safe and we commend the first responders and medical staff for their quick reaction. an analyst for nbc's nascar coverage was on the way to the race. he will not be part of the broadcast so he can be there