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CONCORD, N.C. — On Sunday, the 2025 Squier-Hall Award for NASCAR Media Excellence was awarded to retired motorsports journalist Mike Harris.
This recognition marks him as the 13th recipient of the prestigious award, which is showcased in the NASCAR Hall of Fame located in Charlotte.

Joining the Associated Press in 1969, Harris became the lead motorsports reporter in 1980, a position he held until concluding his career in July 2009.
“For decades, Mike Harris served as a dependable voice within the NASCAR community,” remarked Jim France, the chairman and CEO of NASCAR.
“His extensive reach coincided with NASCAR’s rise in popularity, and his insightful coverage and feature articles allowed fans across the nation to connect with NASCAR and our drivers.
Mike is not only a consummate professional but also a true gentleman and a legendary figure in journalism.”

Harris’ journalism journey began in 1967 at the Rockford Morning Star in Illinois, followed by his work at the Register-Republic, before making his way to the AP’s Chicago bureau in 1969.
He also served as the Indiana sports editor prior to dedicating himself entirely to motorsports reporting.

In recognition of his contributions to motorsports media, Harris was honored with the American Motorsports Media Award of Excellence in 1985.
He also received the Jim Hunter Writer of the Year Award from the Eastern Motorsport Press Association twice, in 1987 and again in 1994.

The Squier-Hall Award is determined by a selection panel that includes NASCAR executives, members of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, active and former media personnel, and former NASCAR competitors along with industry leaders.
The award pays tribute to prominent NASCAR media figures Ken Squier and Barney Hall, who were its first recipients.

Harris is set to be recognized during the NASCAR Hall of Fame’s induction ceremony events on February 7 and will also be featured in a dedicated exhibit at the Hall of Fame.
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