One of the most popular NASCAR drivers is set to retire at the end of this season.

Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images
Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images
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Dale Earnhardt Jr has scheduled a news conference this afternoon where he plans to announce his retirement from NASCAR after 18 years on the racing circuit according to our racing partner and affiliate MRN.com.

Jr has been a fixture on the oval and driving for Hendrix Motor Sports.

Dale Earnhardt Jr will turn 43 this year and after his 600 start in March, he's ready to hang it up.

We will have an update of this story after his news conference this afternoon. (April 25)

NASCAR is heard locally on 1033 US COUNTRY.

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