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via Getty

via Getty

In the heart of the NASCAR lies a racetrack so daunting that even the most fearless drivers and their families shudder at the mere thought. Talladega Superspeedway, a place where speed meets the supernatural, has witnessed countless tales of triumph and tragedy. But recently, after Stewart-Haas Racing’s Kevin Harvick took his final lap at the infamous track, his wife, DeLana, expressed her relief. 

Sunday’s race marked the end of SHR veteran’s career at this nerve-wracking venue. As he crossed the finish line in second place, a thunderous roar of excitement filled the air. However, that jubilation was short-lived. NASCAR’s unforgiving post-race inspection disqualified him, adding a bitter twist to his final ride. 

DeLana Harvick’s chilling relief after Talladega

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In the midst of a discussion on the NASCAR on NBC Podcast featuring hosts Kyle Petty and Nate Ryan, the topic of Kevin Harvick’s recent remarks regarding his racing experience took center stage. Nate Ryan initiated the conversation, highlighting how Harvick had expressed relief in an interview, noting that he had run well but was glad to be returning home unscathed.

Ryan stated, “I think afterward, Harvick said, look, I ran well, but you know, is what it is. I almost won, but I’m glad to be going home in one piece. He made reference to it.” 

“And then DeLana tweeted it, his wife tweeted it, essentially saying like, I’m glad that he’s coming home in one piece and I never have to come back here and watch him race anymore, which is, yeah, it’s kind of chilling when you think about it.” 

DeLana Harvick couldn’t help but rejoice on social media. She declared, “Alllllmost 🙃 While it didn’t end like we hoped, I’m taking Pops home in one piece never to return and I am ohhhhhh so grateful.”

Talladega Superspeedway has a history fraught with spine-chilling tales. This racetrack, nestled in the heart of Alabama, has seen more than its fair share of heart-stopping moments, some heartwarming and others downright heart-wrenching.

WATCH THIS STORY: Denny Hamlin Blames Tony Stewart for Letting Down Slowest Kevin Harvick

Kyle Petty chimed in the podcast, drawing parallels to the past. 

Kevin Harvick and other drivers’ dread 

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Since its inception, Talladega has been shrouded in legends of violent incidents and eerie happenings. Rumour has it that the track was built upon an Indian burial ground, infusing it with an otherworldly energy. Even the inaugural race in 1969 was tainted with a series of bizarre incidents, earning it the dubious distinction of being one of the most notorious races in history.

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Petty stated in the podcast, “It is kind of chilling when you think about it. But let’s go back in time. How many drivers have we seen retire and they would say after they retired, I’ll come back and run some other races, but I’m never going back to Talladega. You know what I mean? Yeah, never going back.” 

“I mean, that’s that, that’s, that speaks volumes to me when a driver steps away from the sport and says, okay, I’m not officially retired. I’d probably come back and run four or five races a year, but Talladega is not never going to be one of them.

“And that speaks volumes to me about the dread and the stress and the emotional toll that it takes on not only the drivers, but the families when they do go to Talladega.” 

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He also stressed that Talladega had witnessed its share of tragic and near-tragic incidents, underscoring the anxiety and apprehension associated with racing at that particular track. So, as the sun sets on another day at Talladega, and the roar of engines fades into the distance, one can’t help but wonder: Is this racetrack cursed by some unearthly force? Or is it merely a crucible where the bravest souls test their mettle against the unknown? 

READ MORE: Robbed by Ryan Blaney, NASCAR Denies Kevin Harvick His Runners-Up Crown as Tony Stewart & Co. Do Him Dirty