Dale Earnhardt Jr. and spotter TJ Majors recall tension on the radio
When Dale Earnhardt Jr. ran in the NASCAR Cup Series, he was often considered the most popular driver among fans. But, at times, he wasn’t the most popular guy on his team. Earnhardt and former spotter TJ Majors apparently had some interesting moments while on the track.
Earnhardt and Majors were asked by a fan if they ever had any tension while on the radio during a race. Both were quick to respond.
“All the time,” Earnhardt said.
Then, Majors suggested that a lot of those moments are available for fans to see and hear.
“Yeah, so, a little while ago, I think he mentioned, ‘Oh, everybody’s human’ and stuff like that — and I was wondering where that guy was about 15 years ago on the radio,” Majors said. “There’s a lot of clips out there on YouTube and I’m not sure he had the same thought process back then.”
Earnhardt said that part of becoming a NASCAR Cup Series driver was getting a bit of an attitude. At times, he’d get fairly upset with Majors while driving. But the spotter would often return the favor.
“I was a race car driver man, had a pretty big ego. They give you a uniform, some driving shoes and gloves, a helmet and a big ego to go with it,” Earnhardt said.
“There were times when, I would say something to TJ and he would just quit spotting. He’s like, ‘Hey, if you’re gonna be an ass****, I can just not do this job. You need my help.’
Dale Earnhardt Jr. hopping behind the wheel in Miami
Hopefully Earnhardt has dropped the attitude, because he’ll be returning to the track for a few races on the Xfinity Series this year. His latest announcement came this week, revealing that he plans to participate in the Homestead-Miami race in October.
Earnhardt will be sponsored by Bass Pro Shops for the event.
This marks the first time since 2017 Earnhardt has participated in multiple races in one season. Both of those appearances come in the Xfinity Series. He’ll also race at Bristol.
Earnhardt’s return to the wheel comes on Sept. 15 for the Food City 300 at Bristol Motor Speedway. The Contender Boats 300 at Homestead-Miami will be held on Oct. 21.
In his career, Earnhardt won 24 races on the Xfinity Series circuit. He also won the series championship in back-to-back years in 1998 and 1999.