Legendary Motorsports Journalist Honored with Prestigious NASCAR Award

Retired Associated Press writer Mike Harris has been named the recipient of the 2025 Squier-Hall Award for NASCAR Media Excellence, recognizing his decades-long contribution to the sport's coverage and growth. Harris, who joined the AP in 1969 and became the lead motorsports reporter in 1980, is being celebrated for his trusted voice and impactful storytelling that brought NASCAR and its drivers to millions of fans across the country.

Honoring a True Legend in the Field of Motorsports Journalism

A Trusted Voice in the NASCAR Garage for Decades

Mike Harris' career as a motorsports journalist spanned over four decades, during which he became a fixture in the NASCAR garage. His unwavering dedication and commitment to covering the sport earned him the respect and trust of both the racing community and his peers. As the lead motorsports reporter for the Associated Press, Harris' nationwide reach coincided with the enormous growth in NASCAR's popularity, and his comprehensive coverage and feature stories played a crucial role in introducing the sport and its drivers to a wider audience.NASCAR chairman and CEO Jim France praised Harris, stating, "Mike Harris was a trusted voice inside the NASCAR garage for decades. Mike's nationwide reach coincided with NASCAR's enormous popularity growth, and his coverage and feature stories for the world's largest news-gathering organization brought NASCAR and our drivers into the homes of millions of fans across the country. Mike is a true professional, a gentleman and a legend in his field."

A Trailblazer in Motorsports Journalism

Harris' journey in journalism began in 1967 with the Rockford Morning Star in Illinois and the Register-Republic before he joined the AP's Chicago bureau in 1969. He quickly established himself as a rising star, becoming the Indiana sports editor before transitioning to his true passion – motorsports. Harris' dedication and expertise in the field were recognized through numerous accolades, including the American Motorsports Media Award of Excellence in 1985 and the Jim Hunter Writer of the Year Award from the Eastern Motorsport Press Association in 1987 and 1994.The Squier-Hall Award, which Harris will receive, is a prestigious honor named after two legendary NASCAR media figures, Ken Squier and Barney Hall, who were the first recipients of the award. The award is voted upon by a panel of NASCAR and NASCAR Hall of Fame executives, active and retired media members, and former NASCAR competitors and industry leaders, further underscoring the significance of Harris' recognition.

Celebrating a Legacy of Excellence in Motorsports Journalism

As the 13th winner of the Squier-Hall Award, Mike Harris joins an elite group of individuals who have made an indelible mark on the world of motorsports journalism. His unwavering commitment to storytelling, his ability to connect with both the racing community and the fans, and his unwavering professionalism have all contributed to his enduring legacy.Harris will be honored during the NASCAR Hall of Fame induction ceremony festivities on February 7th, where he will be featured in a special exhibit within the Hall of Fame. This recognition not only celebrates his remarkable career but also serves as a testament to the power of journalism in shaping the narrative and capturing the essence of the sport he so passionately covered.As the motorsports world gathers to honor Mike Harris, it is a moment to reflect on the profound impact that dedicated and talented journalists can have on the sports they cover. Harris' legacy will continue to inspire future generations of motorsports journalists, who will strive to emulate his dedication, integrity, and unwavering commitment to bringing the sport to life for millions of fans.