In recent years, NASCAR drivers have increasingly expressed concerns about safety issues, particularly with the introduction of the Next Gen car. Many feel that their warnings have been overlooked, leading to heightened tensions between drivers and NASCAR leadership
Drivers’ Concerns with the Next Gen Car
Veteran drivers like Denny Hamlin and Kevin Harvick have been vocal about the safety shortcomings of the Next Gen car. Hamlin has called for a complete redesign, citing that drivers’ initial concerns were not adequately addressed. He revealed that drivers had previously boycotted participation in a NASCAR docuseries due to safety apprehensions, stating, “We threw up red flags over a year ago, and they just didn’t respond”
Harvick echoed these sentiments, criticizing NASCAR’s slow response to safety issues. He highlighted incidents where cars caught fire during tests, emphasizing that such problems were known but not promptly addressed. Harvick stated, “The whole safety thing is really kind of second fiddle right now. And I just don’t think that’s fair to the drivers” .
NASCAR’s Response and Ongoing Dialogue
In response to the growing concerns, NASCAR President Steve Phelps acknowledged shortcomings in communication with drivers. He admitted, “We probably should have had [an all-driver meeting] months ago to try to deal with the safety issues and what the drivers were feeling in the race car. That’s on me” . NASCAR has since committed to weekly meetings with drivers to address safety concerns and discuss potential improvements.
Calls for Structural Changes in NASCAR Leadership
Former driver Ward Burton has also criticized NASCAR’s management, suggesting that decisions are being made without adequate input from those with racing experience. He stated, “I think sometimes they are not in the driver’s seat of what the racers are going through” . This sentiment reflects a broader call within the racing community for leadership that prioritizes driver safety and incorporates feedback from those directly affected.
The Path Forward
As the dialogue between drivers and NASCAR leadership continues, the racing community watches closely to see if substantive changes will be implemented. The hope is that increased communication and collaboration will lead to enhanced safety measures, ensuring the well-being of drivers and the integrity of the sport.
