Dale Earnhardt Jr scored a historic win at the Pepsi 400 in Daytona on July 7th, 2001.

What happened?

The win came just months after his father's tragic passing during the Daytona 500 on February 18th, 2001.

Dale Earnhardt Jr drove his iconic No. 8 Budweiser Chevrolet for Dale Earnhardt, Inc.

Why it matters for Dale Earnhardt Jr

He went from sixth to first in the closing laps, securing the emotional win.

The world was rooting for him, and Jr. delivered big time.

What comes next?

Current drivers like Chase Elliott, Denny Hamlin, Austin Dillon, and Ryan Blaney reflected on what that moment meant to them and the sport.

Dale Jr. now serves as a lead analyst for TNT's NASCAR Cup Series coverage.

He had no idea they had put a video together, getting emotional as he explained what that moment meant to him on a personal level.

"That's messed up. Y'all put that together and didn't tell me about that. That was a great moment."

He gave a ton of credit to the guys working for him, acknowledging how special and talented everyone was.

"And we put a lot of effort into that car, for that particular weekend, and we had the best guys on the team that could put a car like that together."

The win marked a turning point for Jr. in terms of solidifying himself at the Cup Series level as a fierce competitor.

Dale Earnhardt Jr has spoken extensively about his father's passing and their relationship in general.

He returned to the Daytona International Speedway for the first time since that horrific day, where he ultimately scored the iconic win.

The 25th anniversary of the win was marked over the weekend, with the NASCAR Cup Series in Daytona on Fourth of July weekend.

Dale Earnhardt Jr's win at the Pepsi 400 will always be remembered as one of the most emotional and iconic moments in NASCAR history.

He was thankful that everybody sees it as something unique.

The moment still resonates in NASCAR history, and Jr. is grateful for the support he received during that difficult time.

Dale Earnhardt Jr's iconic win at Daytona was a moment that will be etched in the memories of NASCAR fans forever.

He reflected on the win, saying it was a great memory, and he was thankful that everybody sees it as something unique.

The win was a testament to Jr.'s strength and determination as a driver, and it marked a significant moment in his career.

Dale Earnhardt Jr's emotional reaction to the video of his win was a reminder of the impact that moment had on him and the sport.

He was proud of what they accomplished, and he knew his dad was looking down on him.

The 25th anniversary of the win was a celebration of Jr.'s achievement and a reminder of the iconic moment that still resonates in NASCAR history.

Dale Earnhardt Jr's win at the Pepsi 400 was a moment that will always be remembered as one of the most emotional and iconic in NASCAR history.