The Godfather of Off-Road Racing, Walker Evans, tragically passed away at the age of 86 in Riverside, California, on August 2, 2025.
While some sources reported there was a fatal crash, other sources confirm that he died peacefully, following a period of declining health.
In recent years, Evans had been less active in public racing circles, but remained involved in product development and mentoring through Walker Evans Racing.
Walker Evans Was a Legendary Off-Road And Stock Car Driver!
An inductee into the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame, the SEMA Hall of Fame, and the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, Walker Evans was one of the greatest racers of all time.
Born in 1938, he won 142 races and earned 21 championships throughout his career.
He became famous for winning five Baja 1000 races, as well as many others like the Baja 500 and Mint 400.
He started by racing for actor James Garner’s team and later worked with top brands like Dodge and Goodyear.
His exciting battles with fellow racer Parnelli Jones helped bring off-road racing to a wider audience.
Moreover, Evans competed in NASCAR’s Truck Series, where his team earned several top-10 finishes.
He later started his own company, Walker Evans Racing, making racing parts and partnering with Polaris before selling the business in 2023.
Evans was not only a champion on the track but also a leader who helped grow and shape the sport of off-road racing.
The Motosport World Is Mourning The Loss Of Walker Evans!
Following his passing, people from all over the racing world shared their sadness and memories.
Fans, racers, and teams posted heartfelt messages online, calling him a legend, a true champion, and a major part of racing history.
One fan shared a heartfelt tribute to Walker, saying:
Every now and then the world losses a Legend and Walker was one of them. Walker was a Pioneer in the sport and his vision changed the world. My family is forever grateful to you and you will always be remembered in our hearts. Blessings to your entire family.
His long-time racing rival, Ivan Stewart, and many others spoke about how much Evans meant to the sport.
Additionally, the Walker Evans Racing team shared a heartfelt message, saying:
We are deeply saddened at the passing of Walker Evans. A true Legend, Walker and his team have been instrumental in countless Polaris machines for decades. We couldn’t have done it without him.
Our hearts are with the entire Evans family.
Race in Peace, Walker.
Walker’s son, Evan Evans, is also a celebrated off-road racer. He was a proud son who often spoke about how proud he was of his father, calling him a hero and role model.
Although paralyzed from the chest down in a motorcycle accident in 1989, Evan adapted and became the first paraplegic driver to win a professional off-road racing championship.
In 1996, he won the SODA Class‑13 title, captured seven class victories, and earned the Driver of the Year award.
He continued to compete in CORR, consistently ranking near the top of the Pro‑2 division and even setting records.
Additionally, Evans’ wife, Phyllis, and the rest of the family have received lots of love and support from the racing community.
Although he has passed away, Walker Evans’ legacy lives on.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Walker Evans’ family, friends, and well-wishers.
Rest In Peace, Legend!
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Walker began his career in 1969 and officially retired from full-time off-road racing in 2000.
- He also ventured into rock crawling competitions.
I was a pit crew member for a class 8 Off -road race team “Dale Sexton ” [ Sexton Realty of Riverside CA ] in 78/ 79. and later when “Larry Wilcox of C.H.I.P.S bought into the team.. Walker Evens and dale were friends as well as competetors in class 8. I was offered a chance to go to the Baja 1000 and work on the Walker Evens pit crew / Goodyear trailer in 1979 when Randy Anderson was crew Chief . Last saw Walker at the Pomana Off-Road Expo in 2007 , we took a photo together at my booth , I will frome that photo and hang it on my wall of fame . I have many , many photos of walker in his class 8 Dodge during that period . Class 8 was the best class , and in my opinion Off- Road racing went down hill when the Big money invaded , I guess I’m old school and liked the looks of the way trucks are supposed to look like . Retired now 71 Y.O and building a Ford Ranger class 7300 , to race in Nevada and complete my “Bucket list” . I will repeat the Phrase , Race in Peace Walker , You are a Legand !!! . Godspeed racing across the Galaxy .