1987 The Winston

Despite being eligible for the 1988 Winston, he opted not to participate due to a then-ongoing lawsuit against NASCAR after he was suspended for testing positive for banned substances early that year.

Because the field did not meet the minimum requirement of 19 cars, the remaining spots were awarded to the most recent winning drivers prior to the 1986 season.

On lap 62, Neil Bonnett and Richard Petty collided in turn three, bringing out the first caution and ending their chances of finishing the race.

[2] Both cars once again traded paint side-by-side, but the contact cut Elliott's left rear tire, forcing him to pit and go a lap down while Terry Labonte charged forward to challenge Earnhardt.

NASCAR fined Earnhardt and Elliott $10,000 each for aggressive driving, with $7,500 being returned over the next seven weeks for good behavior.

On May 27, 1987, a fan sent NASCAR President Bill France Jr. a letter threatening to kill Earnhardt at Pocono, Watkins Glen, or Dover.