A tribute to a racing pioneer
NASCAR released a heartfelt statement this week, expressing its condolences for the passing of Steve Mendoza, a longtime modified team owner and driver whose career spanned decades of stock‑car competition.
Mendoza’s reputation was built on an unwavering passion for the sport, a dedication that saw him field competitive cars and mentor younger talent, including Andy Jankowiak, with whom he shared a friendship that extended beyond the track.
The bond between Mendoza and Jankowiak was highlighted when the driver dedicated his recent ARCA victory at Talladega Superspeedway to his mentor, a gesture that resonated throughout the garage and underscored the personal connections that define racing culture.
Beyond his on‑track achievements, Mendoza was celebrated for his perseverance, his willingness to support fellow competitors, and the positive energy he brought to every pit‑lane meeting, traits that earned him respect across the modified division.
Colleagues such as Tom Rogers Jr. and Cleetus McFarland have spoken of his mentorship, recalling how his guidance helped shape their own racing ambitions and reinforced a community that values camaraderie as much as competition.
The outpouring of tributes from drivers, teams, and fans alike reflects a career that was not only marked by wins and championships but also by the lasting relationships forged in the pits and the garage.