This diecast commemorates Dale Earnhardt Jr's first of two consecutive Busch Grand National Championships. During the 1998 season, Earnhardt Jr won seven Busch Series races: Bristol, Dover, Milwaukee, Fontana, Indianapolis Raceway Park, Richmond, and Gateway (St. Louis). Jr entered the last race of the season at Homestead Miami with a 166 point lead over Matt Kenseth. All Jr had to do was to start the Miami race to win the championship. Good thing the bar was not much higher, as Jr was able to complete only 89 laps before he had to retire with engine failure. He finished 42nd, but was crowned the 1998 champion.