Veteran sports anchor allegedly stole funds from International Motorsports Hall of Fame to buy vintage cars for himself, wife

Former Alabama sports anchor, Mike Raita, found himself in hot water after being arrested for allegedly embezzling funds from the International Motorsports Hall of Fame to purchase vintage cars for himself and his wife. The 67-year-old, who served as the executive director of the organization from 2020 to 2024, was charged with misappropriating $236,000 in funds between 2019 and 2024.

According to reports, Raita used the hall’s commission to pay for personal purchases, including a 1968 Camaro Convertible Pace Car and a 1998 F-150. The Camaro alone cost $15,000 upfront, with an additional $23,000 needed for refurbishment. The pickup truck, on the other hand, was purchased for $1,000.

Following a damning audit that uncovered the financial discrepancies, Raita and the entire board of the International Motorsports Hall of Fame were removed from their positions. In November 2025, Governor Kay Ivey appointed new board members, excluding Raita from the reseated board.

Despite his legal troubles, Raita continues to serve as the regional director for Senator Tommy Tuberville. His legal team has stated that he plans to plead not guilty to the charges brought against him.

During his tenure as a sports anchor at ABC 33/40, Raita was a well-known figure in the industry, winning multiple Emmy awards and being named Alabama Sportscaster of the Year by the Associated Press ten times. He hosted “The Zone,” a popular segment on the Birmingham station where he covered sports news across the state and showcased local field reporters.

Raita’s contract with ABC 33/40 was not renewed in 2017, leading to his departure from the network. Despite his legal troubles, Raita’s contributions to the sports broadcasting industry in Alabama have left a lasting impact.