Steve Peterson (racing executive)

Steve Peterson (1950 – July 15, 2008) was an American technical director for NASCAR. He joined NASCAR in 1995 and worked with them up until his death. During his time he worked as a technical director and a safety adviser. He led to the improvement of safety barriers, neck and head restraints as well as seatbelts.

In 1982 he worked as crew chief for driver Mark Martin.[1] In 2006 he was awarded Society of Automotive Engineers Motorsports Achievement Award.

Peterson died of natural causes at his home in Concord, North Carolina.[2] The NASCAR Confidential episode on "Race Control" for the 2008 Coca-Cola 600 at Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord, NC that aired on Speed TV on July 20, 2008 was dedicated in his memory. A moment of silence was given for Peterson prior to the start of the 2008 Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 27.