Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s reputation as a lifelong fan of the Washington Redskins is safe.
Hendrick Motorsports had planned to run a Philadelphia Eagles paint scheme, in conjunction with Axalta and the All-Pro Teachers program, at Pocono Raceway.
But the NFL has stepped in and blocked it.
The No. 88 Chevrolet, which would have been wrapped in the green and silver Eagles colors with their logo, now will run a standard Axalta paint scheme next week.
The NFL did not approve the design, because it uses a team to promote another sport, according to Hendrick Motorsports and the Eagles.
Due to an NFL provision, the No. 88 Axalta All-Pro Teachers car will not run at Pocono. @DaleJr will race the customary @AxaltaRacing Chevy.
— Hendrick Motorsports (@TeamHendrick) June 2, 2017
NASCAR's most popular driver, who is in his final season of the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, has long supported the Redskins. He often tweets about them and has visited FedExField several times. He also is involved in a very competitive fantasy football league.
The Redskins Tweeted approval for the NFL's decision not to OK the design.
— Washington Redskins (@Redskins) June 2, 2017
So rest easy, Earnhardt fans. He is not moving to the dark side.
Contributing: The Associated Press