Brian Cleary / Getty Images The elder Earnhardt died at age 49 on Feb. 18, 2001, in a last-lap collision at the Daytona 500. FILE – In this Feb. 18, 2001, file photo, Dale Earnhardt waves to fans during race introduction before the start of the Daytona 500 auto race at … When Dale Earnhardt died in a last-lap crash in the 2001 Daytona 500, it changed NASCAR forever. NBC Sports will take a look at the life, legacy and long-lasting impact of Dale Earnhardt who died 20 years ago this week on the last lap of the 2001 Daytona 500 on Feb. 18, 2001. Global Foodie. A feast of exceptional food, fine living, and endless travel… Flowers were left in front of Dale Earnhardt Enterprises Thursday in memory of Dale Earnhardt Sr., who died in a crash at the Daytona 500 20 years ago Thursday. Dale Earnhardt Sr. died in 2001 in a last-lap crash at the Daytona 500. This is the final installment of a four-part series on the life, death and safety legacy of Dale Earnhardt, 20 years after his fatal crash at the 2001 Daytona 500. Earnhardt Sr. died in one of the most tragic ways a … The legacy of Dale Earnhardt Sr. Feb. 18, 2021 marks 20 years since the death of NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt, who died during the last lap of the 2001 Daytona 500. The cars are decked out and customized, not only for maximum speed, but to keep their drivers safe as well. Jim Utter remembers what it was like to be there on that most tragic of days. But with cars moving nearly triple interstate speeds, tragic accidents are always a possibility. Dale Earnhardt, who died in a crash at the 2001 Daytona 500 on Feb. 18, 2001, left a lasting impact on NASCAR as the company has made many … NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt Sr. walks down pit row holding the hand of his wife, Teresa, prior to the start of the Daytona 500 on Feb. 18, 2001. On the 20th anniversary of Dale Earnhardt Sr's death on the final lap of the 2001 Daytona 500, JIM UTTER reflects on his memories of NASCAR's …