Tragic news from the sports media and auto racing world.  Two days after the NASCAR cup race at Bristol was named in his honor, Steve Byrnes of Fox Sports has passed away.  He was 56.  Byrnes had been undergoing a lengthy battle with cancer.

Fox Sports released the following statement:

It is with tremendous difficulty and deep personal sadness that FOX Sports acknowledges the passing of longtime FOX NASCAR broadcaster, Steve Byrnes, after a lengthy battle with cancer.

A symbol of strength, compassion and dignity, Steve, 56, was a source of inspiration to everyone, sharing his fight in a very courageous and public way. Honored just days ago at Bristol Motor Speedway with the FOOD CITY 500 IN SUPPORT OF STEVE BYRNES AND STAND UP TO CANCER, race fans, race teams, NASCAR and track officials, co-workers, friends and family came together to surround him with a remarkable display of love and respect.

A shining example of husband, father, friend and consummate professional, Steve Byrnes will forever be remembered as one of the good guys — his time with us cherished and appreciated.

Fox aired this tribute to Byrnes during their coverage of Sunday’s race:

Byrnes’ colleagues at Fox as well as drivers and other media members from the NASCAR world have expressed their thoughts on Twitter as well:

Byrnes sent this tweet just yesterday:

Steve Byrnes was a longtime respected and beloved member of the NASCAR community and one of the cornerstones of Fox Sports’ coverage of the sport since it took the air in 2001.  Our condolences to all who are impacted by his loss.

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