NASCAR’s Future Depends on Appeal to Youth Drivers
For kids embracing racing ambitions, quarter-midget racing supplies one of many earliest potential introductions to motor sports activities and NASCAR. The quarter-midget racing is designed for the youngsters — ages 5 to 17 — who race quarter-midget vehicles.
The scaled-down variations of midget-style racing is a part of American auto racing, one that features NASCAR and IndyCar.
While auto racing has become a huge spectator sport within the United States — a steady declines in appeal has raised many questions. NASCAR specifically has raised questions on its future — and how it can appeal to youth drivers who can reach millennial-friendly sponsors and a brand-new era of followers.
“There are so many kids racing NASCAR today that ran in quarter midgets just six or seven years ago,” previously stated Kevin Miller, President and Chief Government Officer of the United States Auto Club, which sanctions a variety of racing collection, together with quarter midgets. “You can see the talent at 7 or 8 years old.”
Former professional stock car racing driver, announcer for Fox NASCAR, and a top executive for Hendrick Motorsports, Jeff Gordon, is a four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and a five-time winner of the Brickyard 400. Gordon obtained his begin racing quarter midgets in Rio Lindo, Calif. Gordon previously stated in a telephone interview that quarter-midget racers absolutely symbolize the way forward for the game. “They play a very important role in racing. It’s a subculture all over the country,” Gordon added. Gordon noting that even taking part in kids without experienced motivations are likely to grow to be lifelong followers.
NASCAR Drive for Diversity 2021
NASCAR Drive for Diversity seeks out the highest quality candidates from diverse backgrounds and develops them into successful NASCAR drivers. During the summer, the youth program provides selected drivers with equipment, mentoring and competition experience.
Max Siegel, CEO of Rev Racing previously stated, “We’ve seen the program grow over the last 10 years and make a substantial impact in NASCAR. The level of talent and enthusiasm we are already seeing in these young individuals is both promising and exciting. Connecting with drivers as early as possible allows us to have a greater impact on driver development on and off the racetrack. Our goal is to see these drivers move through the pipeline and into the national series.”
In February of 2021, eight brilliant young drivers from various backgrounds were selected to the newest class of the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Driver Development Program. The 2021 roster for the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Driver Development Program includes returning veterans Nick Sanchez, Rajah Caruth, Isabella Robusto, Lavar Scott, and Regina Sirvent. This season will mark the first year of NASCAR Drive for Diversity participation for drivers Justin Campbell, Andres Perez de Lara, and Jaiden Reyna.
“We are thrilled to welcome these accomplished drivers to our successful development program,” stated Jusan Hamilton, NASCAR Director, Racing Operations and Event Management. “We’re enthusiastic about their future and look forward to working with each driver as they advance their racing careers.”
Max Siegel, Rev Racing Owner stated, “We could not be more pleased with the 2021 class selection. Each year the competition in the sport continues to rise and so does the talent of our applicant pool. We feel very confident in our ability to be competitive and look forward to a successful season.”
