NASCAR’s acquisition of the ARCA Menards Series in 2018 marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of grassroots stock car racing. Many NASCAR veterans now credit this move as a key factor in preserving the sport’s heritage while creating a stronger foundation for future drivers. Here’s how and why NASCAR’s acquisition of ARCA keeps the spirit of grassroots racing alive, according to those who have lived and breathed the sport.
Preserving the Heart of Stock Car Racing
The ARCA Menards Series has long been seen as the proving ground for future NASCAR stars, boasting a history that dates back to 1953. NASCAR veteran and Hall of Famer Mark Martin described ARCA as “a place where drivers learned the fundamentals of racing – not just the technical side, but the spirit of competition.” By acquiring ARCA, NASCAR has ensured the series can continue to focus on the values that have long defined it, such as close competition and fan-friendly accessibility.
“When I came through the ranks, the grassroots level taught me how to earn every spot on the track,” said Jeff Burton, former NASCAR driver and current broadcaster. “By keeping ARCA alive and well, NASCAR is giving today’s young drivers the same opportunity.”
A Ladder to the Top Levels of NASCAR
NASCAR’s integration of ARCA into its national development ladder has created a streamlined pathway for aspiring racers. ARCA now works hand-in-hand with the NASCAR Truck, Xfinity, and Cup Series, allowing drivers to gain invaluable experience on the kinds of tracks they’ll face as they advance. Veterans like Clint Bowyer see this as a critical step in maintaining the sport’s continuity.
“Before NASCAR bought ARCA, there was some disconnect between grassroots racing and the national series,” Bowyer explained. “Now, young drivers can develop their skills on ARCA’s mix of short tracks, superspeedways, and dirt ovals, which gives them a real taste of what the top levels are like.”
The ARCA Menards Series also allows developing drivers to work with experienced teams and crew members, which aids in their growth both on and off the track. For veterans like Dale Earnhardt Jr., this hands-on experience is irreplaceable. “ARCA helps young racers understand the grind of a race weekend and how to communicate with a team,” Earnhardt said.
Maintaining Grassroots Venues
One of the most significant aspects of NASCAR’s ARCA acquisition is its commitment to racing at local and regional tracks, which are the lifeblood of grassroots racing. Tracks like Toledo Speedway, Berlin Raceway, and DuQuoin State Fairgrounds remain cornerstones of the ARCA schedule, giving fans in smaller markets a chance to witness competitive stock car racing.
“NASCAR could have moved ARCA away from the smaller tracks, but they didn’t,” said Tony Stewart, a three-time Cup Series champion and track owner. “These are the tracks where racing was born, and they’re critical to the sport’s future. ARCA keeps those places alive and thriving.”
By maintaining a presence at grassroots venues, NASCAR not only preserves racing history but also strengthens connections with local fans. Stewart added, “The fans who come to those races are the backbone of the sport, and ARCA ensures they’re not forgotten.”
A Platform for Affordable Competition
Grassroots racing has always been synonymous with affordability, and ARCA’s cost-conscious approach reflects that tradition. NASCAR’s leadership has worked to keep the series accessible for smaller teams, ensuring they can remain competitive. Veteran racer Ken Schrader, who frequently fields ARCA entries, believes this is essential for the health of the sport.
“ARCA isn’t just about developing drivers,” Schrader said. “It’s about giving smaller teams and independent owners a chance to race on a national stage without breaking the bank. NASCAR’s done a good job of keeping that balance.”
Carrying the Spirit Forward
For many veterans, NASCAR’s acquisition of ARCA represents more than just a business deal—it’s a commitment to the sport’s roots. By bridging the gap between grassroots racing and NASCAR’s national series, ARCA has become a key part of the sport’s ecosystem.
“ARCA embodies the heart of what racing is about,” said Richard Petty, the King of NASCAR. “It’s about hard work, passion, and the love of the sport. NASCAR saw that and made sure it wouldn’t fade away.”
The ARCA Menards Series stands as a testament to NASCAR’s dedication to preserving the spirit of grassroots racing while paving the way for the next generation of stars. By maintaining ARCA’s traditions, fostering development, and supporting local tracks, NASCAR ensures the roots of the sport remain strong.
As Jeff Burton summed up: “NASCAR didn’t just acquire ARCA—they embraced what it stands for. And because of that, the heart of racing is alive and well.”
