Flat Rock Speedway extends its condolences to the family and friends of Rich Thiel, who passed away Nov. 7, 2026.

Rich was a longtime part of the Flat Rock Speedway and ARCA racing community, first competing behind the wheel at Flat Rock before making a pair of ARCA Menards Series starts in 1989 at Salem and Toledo. He later continued his involvement in the sport as an ARCA Menards Series crew member for drivers including Bob Keselowski and Dave Simko.

His family’s racing legacy carried on through his son, Jimmy, and grandson, Austin, both of whom also competed at Flat Rock Speedway.

Rich’s connection to the track spanned generations, and his contributions as a driver, crew chief, and racing family member will not be forgotten. Our thoughts are with the entire Thiel family.