Teresa & Dale Jr.: They’re Done

"The main factor is the ownership part," said Dale Earnhardt Jr. (Junior). "It has nothing to do with money and nothing else really. ... My father has been gone for five, six years now. I want majority ownership. That's basically it."

Teresa Earnhardt is a businesswoman. Dale Earnhardt was not a seven-time champion in her eyes, he was a cash register. She simply rang the bell and took the money. Junior is petulant child. Despite lackluster statistics, he has invoked entitlement. This clash does not concern fortune, fame, or money. Simply stated, this battle is ego. This mêlée affects whose name will reside over the Dale Earnhardt Incorporated door.

Questions layer this conflict. Junior has stated no interest in ownership. Why should he inherit control? Teresa’s concern is shaping Dale Earnhardt’s legacy. For her, does racing matter? Neither believes they can coexist. Has their past condemned contract negotiations? Both are identified with Dale Earnhardt Incorporated. Can either survive separately?

Previously, Junior and DEI survived on a handshake. Two seasons ago, he forced a contract. Last season, Richard Childress resigned Kevin Harvick. What are Junior’s options upon departure? Harvick’s teammate appears the lone answer. Junior is Dale Earnhardt Incorporated. Teresa is an afterthought. Can she maintain the franchise upon his exit? What is Budweiser’s future?

Teresa and Junior’s images stand irreparably shattered. Teresa is now the widow who would not share. Junior is now the spoiled second generation with demands. There will be no resolution. Their season is irrelevant. The campaign has been eclipsed by their nuclear winter.