For NASCAR legend Jeff Burton, the racing world has long been left in his rearview mirror. Known as “The Mayor” during his illustrious career, Burton amassed 23 wins in the NASCAR Cup Series, including two prestigious Coca-Cola 600 victories and a triumph at the Southern 500. Since retiring in 2014, the former driver has become a respected voice in the sport as an NBC Sports commentator. However, his recent conversation on the ‘Crossroads’ podcast with his family showcased Burton’s vehement stance against a racing comeback—even when offered a staggering $1 million by his nephew Jeb.

The lively family chat brought together Jeff, his brother Ward, son Harrison, and nephew Jeb to discuss their careers and relationships with racing. While Harrison and Jeb continue to make strides in NASCAR, Jeff’s determination to stay retired stood out, particularly as he shut down any comparisons of his situation to that of boxing icon Mike Tyson.

The family challenge: Jeff Burton stands firm against a comeback

The podcast episode unfolded, with Jeb playfully proposing a family race to bring the Burtons back together on the track. “What would it take for us to get you two to race in the race?” he asked, directing the question to his father, Ward, and uncle Jeff.

Ward’s response was typically exaggerated: “One million dollars.” This prompted laughter and a witty retort from Harrison: “Oh, well, we’re screwed.” Ward quickly adjusted his price to a tenth of the initial sum.

Turning to Jeff, Jeb asked, “A 100 Grand, Jeff?” Jeff’s reply was unequivocal: “No amount of money.”

Jeff Burton elaborated by referencing Mike Tyson explaining his reasons for staying retired. “You ever heard [what] Mike Tyson [said]? I mean, this is completely different. Mike Tyson, when he retired from fighting, he said he didn’t want to start fighting again because he didn’t want the ugly side of Mike Tyson to come out. He’s like, ‘I’m a bad guy. I’m a shit person.’”

Jeb interjected, mentioning Tyson’s recent return to the ring against Jake Paul. Jeff acknowledged this but emphasized the contrast between Tyson’s situation and his own. “Yeah, well, [that was] for the right money, but wait, hold on. No, but it’s not—I’m not like that. Racing isn’t like that. For me, I don’t feel like I’m a bad guy when I’m racing, but I never—Ward was a much better driver than I was. He’s faster than I was.”

Jeff’s props towards his brother Ward Burton remain well-founded. Ward, a former NASCAR driver himself, was known for his gritty, fierce driving style. Competing in the NASCAR Cup Series from 1994 to 2007, Ward Burton earned five career victories, including the prestigious 2002 Daytona 500 and the 2001 Southern 500. Ward was renowned for his skill on superspeedways and road courses. He drove primarily for Bill Davis Racing during his career.

While he claimed Ward was more naturally gifted as a driver, Jeff attributed his own success to a deeper understanding of the car and its needs: “The reason I won races is because I was pretty good at understanding the race car and what it needed. I don’t know why. It just kind of came natural to me until it got too smart for me.”

He further explained that his holistic approach to racing, involving both driving and setting up the car, would demand a level of commitment he’s no longer willing to give. “The way I raced, I gotta do it all, and I have no interest in putting that effort and time and energy into it. So, therefore, I have no desire to drive a race car. If I ever got into it, it would be all-encompassing. I don’t wanna be half-assed doing that.”

Ward’s suggestion that Jeff’s well-equipped home shop would be perfect for a return was met with a firm rebuttal. “Harrison will tell you, I spent many, many hours in that shop, a lot. I’m over it. I don’t wanna open that box.”

The next generation: Harrison and Jeb Burton’s racing journeys

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While Jeff remains content in retirement, his son Harrison and nephew Jeb are actively shaping their own NASCAR legacies. Harrison Burton, who competed in the NASCAR Cup Series, faced a challenging 2024 season, culminating in his departure from Wood Brothers Racing. Despite the struggles, Harrison delivered a career-defining victory at Daytona, securing the Wood Brothers’ 100th Cup win and solidifying his reputation as a driver with immense potential.

Harrison’s return to the Xfinity Series with AM Racing in 2025 presents an opportunity to reset and rebuild. Driving the No. 15 Ford Mustang, he’s eager to bring his Cup experience to the developing team. Reflecting on his new chapter, Harrison said, “They look at me as someone who brings experience from great teams. If we can create a winning culture here, it’ll mean even more than my wins with Gibbs.”

Jeb Burton, competing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, has also shown promise in his career. Racing for Jordan Anderson Racing, Jeb achieved a memorable victory at Talladega in 2023. Like his cousin Harrison, Jeb continues to strive for consistency and success in a competitive field.

While Jeff Burton has pulled the curtains on his career, the next generation of Burtons is forging ahead, carrying the family’s racing legacy into the future. Harrison and Jeb’s ongoing efforts in NASCAR exemplify the same determination and passion that defined Jeff’s career. As they navigate their own paths, they continue to honor the Burton name on and off the track—without needing a family race to prove it.