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NASCAR Insiders Push for Changes to Showcase Driver Personalities, Inspired by Formula 1
NASCAR insiders Jordan Bianchi and Jeff Gluck are calling for significant changes to the sport, urging officials to allow drivers to showcase their personalities more freely. They argue that NASCAR’s current approach, which often emphasizes maintaining a polished public image, prevents fans from seeing the human side of racing.
On a recent episode of The Teardown podcast, Bianchi highlighted the issue, saying:
“Let them speak their mind. NASCAR has become overly cautious about what drivers say and do. There are so many great personalities in this sport that fans never get to see. When the cameras are off, these drivers are so engaging and fun, and it’s a shame more people don’t get to witness that.”
Historically, NASCAR thrived on the charisma of iconic drivers like Dale Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon, and Tony Stewart, whose larger-than-life personas helped build the sport’s cultural relevance. However, while current stars like Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson excel on the track, they haven’t achieved the same level of fame.
Bianchi believes fostering a more open environment for drivers would help NASCAR create new superstars and attract younger fans. “If the goal is to have superstars, you need to let them show their personality,” he said.
Co-host Jeff Gluck added that NASCAR could learn from Formula 1’s approach to driver engagement. In F1, drivers regularly interact with the media, regardless of their performance. Gluck explained:
“In Formula 1, you always hear from the drivers—whether they win, crash out, or finish last. This level of access helps fans connect with their stories and personalities, making the sport feel more dynamic and relatable.”
Both Bianchi and Gluck argue that increased media interaction and showcasing drivers’ authentic selves could boost fan engagement and rejuvenate public interest in NASCAR. By embracing a more personal and transparent approach, NASCAR could attract a broader audience and revive the excitement that once defined the sport.
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