Tires were a hot topic in NASCAR this year. We witnessed a thrilling Goodyear tire management race at Bristol Motor Speedway, where Denny Hamlin used ingenious strategies to win. Recently, however, Goodyear’s old rival hit the news – Hoosier Racing Tires. This brand engaged in an infamous ‘Tire War’ with our present wheel manufacturer, vying for more recognition. And one of the pioneers of this battle is now leaving his hallowed pedestal.

Irish Saunders’ journey with Hoosier began part-time in the summer of 1976. After his stint turned full-time in 1981, Saunders dedicated himself to the rivalry with Goodyear that kicked off with a bang in 1988. After working for four decades at the iconic tire brand, Saunders is finally ready to call it quits.

NASCAR’s tire veteran leaves emotional message

During the 1988 season, teams learned that Hoosier tires were softer and faster, while Goodyears were more durable and safer. So the latter company started trying for faster tires – this battle for better tires resulted in crashes during the Coca-Cola 600 race. However, only one tire brand prevailed – that season, Hoosier won 9 out of 29 races. Amidst this resounding success was a pioneer of the brand – Irish Saunders. Although Hoosier left NASCAR for good after 1994, the relationships forged with drivers and teams were immortal. From three-time Cup Series champion Tony Stewart gifting Saunders’ son a 600 Mini Sprint race car to Saunders mentoring a crippled former NASCAR driver, his ties to the sport are strong.

So when Irish Saunders announced his retirement recently, he sent emotional ripples across the NASCAR world. He penned a heartfelt message on Facebook, declaring his departure from Hoosier. “After four decades with Hoosier Racing Tire, the time has come for me to step away and embrace retirement.” He offered a tribute to the racing legends he has worked with. “First and foremost, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to the racers, tracks, and promoters who bring this sport to life…One of the greatest honors of my career has been the opportunity to work with and learn from some of the most talented racers in the history of motorsports. While there are far too many to name, know that each of you has left an indelible mark on me.” 

Then Saunders went on to hail his tenure at Hoosier. Having worked for a fierce tire brand that competed with NASCAR’s currently exclusive tire supplier is an honor indeed. “I am incredibly proud to have been part of the remarkable growth of Hoosier Racing Tire. This company is more than a workplace; it is a family built on passion, innovation, and resilience. The relationships I have built with employees over the years have been some of the most meaningful in my life. I have learned so much from all of you, and I am eternally grateful for the camaraderie and support that made every challenge worthwhile.”

In response, his former colleagues and fans poured forth wishes for Saunders’ upcoming journey.

Respect earned where it was due

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Irish Saunders’ work in Hoosier has been pioneering. For instance, he expertly handled a tire supply shortage that hit the short-track industry in 2021 as the asphalt business manager. Back then many teams asked for 16-24 tires per weekend as against the usual 4-8. Saunders got down to the bottom of the problem, which was the teams’ excess money following COVID-19. So after four decades of such expert work, fans were sad to see Saunders leave his post. “Irish, To many of us, including myself, you are and always will be Hoosier Tire. Thank you for your loyalty and friendship which I know will continue. You deserve a big thanks from all of us in racing. Thank You!” Another fan congratulated Saunders for earning his time off from a memorable career. “Congrats n so well deserved…. enjoy ur time off!!”

NASCAR celebrities also flocked to congratulate Saunders on starting his new journey. Kenny Wallace, a 9-time Xfinity winner, clinched the  2012 DirtCar championship and the 2021 Wild Card 25 race. He credited these dirt racing laurels to Saunders: “I sure am happy that I started my second phase of life in DIRT racing😁 That is why I met you. You have another journey coming up 😁💯” Also NASCAR legend Geoff Bodine owns four wins with Hoosier in 1994, hailed Saunders’ new journey: “It’s about time 😱. You’ll be missed at the tracks with Hoosier but you’re going to be loved everywhere else🏁. Have a great and Happy Thanksgiving 🇺🇸🏁🦃”

This year, Hoosier became the official tire provider for the highly anticipated, second annual Open Wheel Showdown, with Saunders at the forefront. The veteran’s pioneering work in dirt racing was hailed by people, and one fan was eager to see him enjoying a race instead of working on it from now on. “The passion and desire you dedicate to this sport is much appreciated by all- especially myself! Cheers to you sir. Can’t wait for you to enjoy some racing at Eldora as a fan!”

Evidently, Irish Saunders will be dearly missed by the NASCAR community. His work with Hoosier has been unforgettable, as he proceeds to look back on his legacy.