WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. — Dale Earnhardt Jr. made it clear on Friday. He doesn't want to talk about the “R” word, as in retirement.
Earnhardt's recent struggle with concussion-like symptoms, a malady that will cause him to miss at least five NASCAR Sprint Cup races this season, has fueled speculation that concern over health issues might persuade him to exit the No. 88 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet permanently.