Why do some NASCAR fans only like 'media friendly' or 'polite' drivers?

Question

I've been a fan of NASCAR since I was eleven years old..I'm 46 now, and I remember the days before NASCAR became a hugely popular form of racing...and many drivers back then were as aggressive as some of today's drivers, who tend to get bashed...I wonder if it's only newer, or younger fans that tend to like 'media friendly' or 'polite' drivers, like Jeff Gordon or Jimmie Johnson? Or do certain people think certain drivers make better 'role model' types? Is it that some newer or younger fans have never seen drivers like Cale Yarbourough or the Allisons? Or that kids like the drivers based on popularity?

Answer 1

Certainly, drivers that are "good guys" tend to be more popular than their not always so agreeable driving buddies. Drivers like Tony Stewart are always being punished by fans and NASCAR media because they aren't always politically correct or they said something that perhaps can be controversial. NASCAR wants to have a kid friendly and family centered atmosphere and I respect and encourage that entirely. However, it is somewhat selfish that NASCAR expects the men to be completely calm, generous, and overly friendly at ALL TIMES. Nobody can do that!! When things go wrong at races, tempers flare and problems arise naturally between drivers. Some handle it better than others. Some drivers fight physically, some talk it out, and some don't do much at all. It's a personality issue, and NASCAR simply cannot mold each driver into some sort of "perfect man" who always does the so-called "right thing" at all times.

Some drivers, like Jeff Burton or Mark Martin, try exceedingly to be good guys and never do the wrong thing. But let's be honest here...those guys almost never win races. I think to some extent that in NASCAR racing, doing the "wrong" thing and getting agressive are important if you want to win a race. Doing politically incorrect things on the track is usually just a way to gain positions on the track, and that should only be dealt with between drivers and not along with NASCAR officials or fans. Also, if a driver says something politically incorrect off the track, that is that driver's right to say whatever they said...along as it isn't too offensive, and it usually isn't. People have opinions and ideas, and that must be respected...even if NASCAR wants a certain image.

Lastly, I think it's important that drivers are themselves and don't hold back on their own thoughts. It's what makes each driver unique, and it's how fans pick out which driver is their favorite or least favorite. I personally like drivers because they are THEMSELVES and not what NASCAR perhaps needs them to be. Those drivers are always on camera and always watched, but they are still individuals. NASCAR and NASCAR fans need to remember and respect that.

Answer 2

I don't think that's always true...

There's a ton of people out there that like Tony Stewart... he's a bad a** ... and he's not afraid to show it. Media Friendly? ummm he hasnt' been in the past. Polite?? don't think so.

Look at the late Dale Earnhardt ... he wasn't always 'polite driver' or a perfect role model... But people Love him for who he was.

Younger fans are going to go with the young drivers and not the veterans simply because of their age range... They can relate to those drivers more for that reason. They can always watch their drivers grow through the years instead of having to choose a new fav. after a few years and the driver retires from the sport.

Answer 3

When stockcar racing was removed from its roots(Darlington,Rockingham,North Wilksburg...) and races were taken from other tracks what was stockcar racing went to a commercial venture and a made for TV sport.
The drivers from the 60's,70's,even the 80's were mostly working there own teams so their fan base was important.They would sit for hours and sing autographs pose for pictures and talk with fans.Most of the drivers today have the "personal" people that plan their time.For autographs of the bigger drivers you have to get a number in advance,the 1 autograph and picture with the driver,and forbid if you want to ask a question.
The polite drives are just a way to make it look as if they are concerned for not being able to spend time with fans.It is just a cover.
Keep stockcar racing pure,Get to the trac on saturday,qualify saturday afternoon,run Sunday.

Answer 4

I like Cale Yarbourough

I also like Reed Sorenson

Answer 5

I don't know...you tend to gravitate toward people you can identify with...I mean, when I look for qualities in a friend, I don't want someone who is rude, disrespectful and insensitive.

Answer 6

Because they are all redneck hicks who are in need of someone to identify with.