“He really loved her”: Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s close friend shares his take on Teresa Earnhardt

Dale Earnhardt Sr.'s close friend, Donnie Rives recently shared his stance on Teresa Earnhardt, who has been a controversial figure since Dale Sr.'s passing. Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s relationship with Teresa Earnhardt has also been fraught since the death of his father.

The tension between the two has been public and centered around several issues, including the control of Dale Earnhardt, Inc.

Further straining relations was a Budweiser commercial intended to pay tribute to Earnhardt Jr. before his final race in the Cup Series. Fans pointed out that the commercial did not display Jr.’s #8 or any other DEI trademarks on the car, leading to speculation that Teresa Earnhardt had not permitted Budweiser to use these trademarks in the tribute.

Additionally, Teresa Earnhardt’s relationship with Kerry Earnhardt, Junior's stepbrother, has also been controversial. She once filed a lawsuit against him concerning the use of the 'Earnhardt' name after Kerry revealed plans to launch a line of furniture and homes named 'The Earnhardt Collection.'

But when Dale Jr. wanted to know Donnie Rives's take on his stepmother, Rives expressed his respect for her and the way she managed her responsibilities alongside Dale Earnhardt Sr. He emphasized that Dale Sr. deeply loved her.

During an episode of the "Dale Jr. Download" podcast, when asked about Teresa Earnhardt, Rives offered insights that contrast sharply with her prevailing public image. He stated:

"I have high respect because even before Dale’s passing, she had a lot on her. And as Dale said, it might take her a while to get it done, but when it’s done, it’s right. As husband and wife, he really loved her. Teresa was really good at managing Dale." [at 0:20]

"I’ve heard him tell lots of people, if it weren’t for that lady right there, I wouldn’t have nothing. I still hold Teresa in high regard and think the world of her. She’s really kept everything mostly low-key. And not went out and tried to do anything under the Earnhardt name. It’s very gratifying for me," he added.

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Dale Earnhardt Jr. believes Teresa Earnhardt was "straight and fair"

Dale Earnhardt Jr. shared some positive insights about his mother Teresa Earnhardt during a recent episode of his podcast, "Dale Jr. Download." Despite their relationship experiencing ups and downs, he maintained a perspective of fairness when it comes to Teresa:

“We’ve all said what we’ve said, we’ve all had different opinions from time to time. And I had a hot and cold relationship with Teresa over the years. But I’ve always said at this table, she’s fair. She’s as straight and fair as could be. And there’s been some moments where she’s done some things that have impressed me or surprised me. She’s done a really good job protecting Dad’s legacy and taking care of that over the years.” [1:14:15]

With Dale Jr. now having applied for the trademark of #8 - a number previously held by Teresa - it will be interesting to see if this iconic logo returns to the NASCAR tracks soon.