Researchers at the Boston University CTE Center diagnosed NASCAR Hall of Famer Fred Lorenzen with stage 3 (of 4) chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) following a post-mortem examination of his brain. Lorenzen, who died December 18, 2024, at age 89, is the first NASCAR driver known to be diagnosed with the disease.
His children, Chris Lorenzen and Amanda Lorenzen Gardstrom, announced a $1 million donation to the Concussion & CTE Foundation to advance research and help struggling drivers and their families find care. The donation will establish the Fred Lorenzen Memorial HelpLine.
“My dad struggled for many years, long before he was diagnosed with dementia in his 60s,” said Amanda Lorenzen Gardstrom. “Watching him go through that, and experiencing the impact it had on me and our family was incredibly difficult and beyond heartbreaking. While he may be the first race car driver diagnosed with CTE, we know from outreach to other drivers that he isn’t the only one suffering. I know there are so many more out there who need help.”
The Lorenzen family opened a dialogue with NASCAR leadership in January about the diagnosis. Although NASCAR declined to join the initiative, the family is moving forward with the Concussion & CTE Foundation to ensure drivers and their families receive the support they need.
“We had hoped NASCAR would join us in this effort, and while we’re disappointed that hasn’t happened, we remain hopeful there will be opportunities to work together to support the drivers who helped build the sport,” said Chris Lorenzen.
Families seeking assistance can contact the Fred Lorenzen Memorial HelpLine.