Its not so much about the fans, it that, the rule set for Nascar is very contrived, and equipment rule set is so far removed from the actual product that it lost its value as a OEM and anything other than a Marketing Platform. A expensive Marketing platform where one could just spend on Ad buys like in the NFL.
If you want to actually race, IMSA, Indycar, SCCA, USAC.... actual racing.
I agree, the whole cup operation is one big business enterprise, not a true racing venue. Using spec cars and engines assures that any true manufacturer racing or production product power plant uniqueness is lost in a bland venue of conformity, false competition and frankly, the sad loss of the sports “soul”.
My son was intrinsically involved with a major corporation’s sponsorship of a Cup car, driven by a top tier driver and also a cup race in a major U.S. city. I got to see second hand a lot, learned a lot and it is all about business. Good business, honest business but business none the less. Actors on a stage.
The obvious marketing value of the race was clear and simple. Your company, your race. I enjoyed every minute watching the races every year in the owners luxury box, cruising the track in a VIP golf car, eating in the infield tent right next to the Dodge tent, getting a few lap ride in a NASCAR race car once and attending and meeting all the drivers at the pre-race meeting. My son even presented the winners trophy on national TV as I proudly watched in front of the raised stage. This fun went on for a few years. I loved it, proud of my son, happy to ride his coat tails and his achievements.
The Cup car was a huge business opportunity to be exploited to the hilt. This was my son’s responsibility, guided by NASCAR management. Every race drew sponsors to the car, some seasonal or a one race deal. The whole car is divided up into sponsorship spaces for sale. There are driver appearance events that generate income. Even the team’s head mechanic drew income from his appearances. It was all business.
There was more pressure to optimize sponsorships than to win races. The cost of entry to the NASCAR “party” was up front millions. Oh yes, there is a cut you get from the TV revenue to sweeten the pot.
Bottom line everything is above board, legal and transparent to those looking behind the curtain. But as you alluded, it’s not pure racing, it’s pure, soulless business. That is why in my opinion fans are walking away. NASCAR has surrendered its soul for a buck.
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