This article, “NASCAR: A New Era of Fandom,” which highlights the good NASCAR is doing to build a new era of fandom, was written by former SportsEpreneur intern Michael Wilson.
It’s difficult to open up social media and, regardless of which side you lean towards, not get angry at all the events going on right now.
However, it’s encouraging to see how teams and leagues are pivoting and turning their attention to new eras in their respective sports.
NASCAR recently banned the Confederate flag from all of its events and tracks.
It’s most definitely a step in the right direction, and in my opinion, one that has long been overdue.
It’s obvious that NASCAR has struggled to attract a younger, more diverse audience over the past 15 years or so. And it’s not entirely their fault.
Millennials simply aren’t into fast cars like the Baby Boomers are; it’s an expensive sport to get into, and some may say it’s one of those sports that’s more fun to watch on TV rather than attending live.
They have hurdles that many other sports leagues don’t have to worry about.
I’m a NASCAR fan. I want the sport to flourish and be successful so that I can, maybe someday, take my kids to the track and hear the sights and sounds of 800hp racecars buzzing around Charlotte Motor Speedway at 200mph. It’s awesome.
Their recent actions prove they’re willing to lose a few fans to gain even more.
But it’s not about just that. It’s about doing the right thing.
It’s about creating a more accepting and diverse culture.
One where everybody feels safe and welcomed.
Related from SportsEpreneur:
- Inside the Business of NASCAR Sim Racing and Experiential Entertainment
- 19 Years, 730 Races, and What Came Next: A NASCAR Pit Crew Story
Work in NASCAR or know someone who does?
We’re expanding our NASCAR coverage at SportsEpreneur — the people, the careers, the business behind the sport that doesn’t always make the headlines. If you’ve built a career on or around pit road, in a race shop, or in the broader Charlotte motorsports ecosystem and want to share your story, we’d like to talk. > Reach out