A living legend in NASCAR, Jeff Gordon will step away from NASCAR after the 2015 season, Hendrick Motorsports announced Thursday morning. Gordon, who is currently 43 years-old, will compete in what will be his 23rd season driving the number 24 car as he has been racing since November of 1992. Gordon’s racing career is as amazing as it gets.

BREAKING: Jeff Gordon says that 2015 will be his final full season in Sprint Cup Series. He's 3rd all-time in wins. pic.twitter.com/Bu9HHNAfo8

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) January 22, 2015

Gordon has won 4 Sprint cups in his career and is 3rd all time on the NASCAR all time win list. He only trails Richard Petty and David Pearson, but by a big margin.

Jeff Gordon had the following to say about his retirement

“I won’t use the ‘R-word’ because I plan to stay extremely busy in the years ahead, and there’s always the possibility I’ll compete in selected events, although I currently have no plans to do that,” he said. “I don’t foresee a day when I’ll ever step away from racing.”

VIDEO: "This is a message to all the Jeff Gordon #24 fans…" -> http://t.co/D0ZybzZpxR. #NASCAR #Team24 pic.twitter.com/gVHzxG58Y4

— Jeff Gordon (@JeffGordonWeb) January 23, 2015

Some NASCAR drivers also shared their thoughts on Gordon’s planned retirement

Hard to imagine this is @JeffGordonWeb last full season. Tons of respect for him and what he's accomplished thus far. A total professional.

— Dale Earnhardt Jr. (@DaleJr) January 22, 2015

Can't imagine being at the track without @JeffGordonWeb. I don't think I would have ever had my opportunity without Jeff paving the way.

— Tony Stewart (@TonyStewart) January 22, 2015

Youngster Chase Elliot is expected to replace Gordon next year.

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