Joe Gibbs honors Bob Labonte ahead of invocation at Texas: ‘Remember the Labonte family’

Ahead of the Autotrader EchoPark Automotive 400 at Texas, Joe Gibbs was honored with giving the pre-race invocation. Before bowing his head in prayer, Gibbs mentioned the Labonte family who lost their patriarch, former NASCAR team owner and crew chief, Bob Labonte last week.

Of course, Bobby Labonte raced for Joe Gibbs for a decade. In the famous Interstate Batteries scheme, Labonte went on to win a lot of races, and of course, a championship with JGR. The Labonte family means a lot to that organization.

Coach Gibbs made sure to mention Bob’s passing before the invocation.

“If we could before we pray if we could remember the Labonte family, Bob Labonte went home last week.”

Bob Labonte was an old-school figure. He was a team owner and crew chief, and helped guide both of his sons to great careers in the NASCAR Cup Series. Both of his sons, Terry and Bobby, would achieve immortality and become champions of the sport.

The Labonte family has contributed so much to NASCAR. They have been the source of so much joy for fans. During this difficult time for their family, it is only fitting the NASCAR world take a moment to remember Bob and all he and his family have done.

Joe Gibbs Racing hoping for big day in Texas

The Toyota group was fast in qualifying. Christopher Bell was the top among the JGR group. Then there was speed out of the 23XI Racing drivers as well. Both Tyler Reddick and Bubba Wallace qualified in the top-10.

Joe Gibbs Racing and Hendrick Motorsports are both elite this season. It is a two-horse race when it comes to the top two teams in the Cup Series. Hendrick and Gibbs have gone back and forth with one another and today’s race won’t be much different.

I think this could be a big day for Bell or Ty Gibbs. That sophomore driver is on the verge of winning a race soon. Could it be at Texas? That will be a challenge with a quick Kyle Larson up front to start today’s race. It’s hot and slick and there will be issues for these drivers today.

Tire strategy will matter. Track position will be major. One mistake could ruin your day in this 400 mile race. Hendrick or Gibbs, who do you have winning today? Or will it be another team in victory lane today?