The motorsports community has often witnessed the debate about which is superior among NASCAR and other racing series. Different fan bases have often overlooked the talent possessed by NASCAR drivers. There have also been stereotypes like drivers only turning to the left and having no talent, that have been spread around by opposing lots. However, after the race at COTA, it was time for the sport to remind everyone that NASCAR too has some really talented drivers in the sport.
Following the race, former Formula 1 driver, Jenson Button made a few comments appreciating how the drivers raced at road courses. His comments struck the right chord amongst several people. Soon, even former NASCAR driver, Jeff Burton spoke about Button’s comments. Burton’s comments came in the middle of an already ongoing debate about lack of “respect” amongst the drivers in the garage.
Jeff Burton admires Jenson Button’s observation
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As per nbcsports.com, Burton mentioned, “It’s absolutely crazy what they do on a weekly basis. We take it for granted. As a former driver, I take it for granted. Our fan base takes it for granted. Other fan bases give nowhere near the respect to cut drivers that they should because to drive a heavy car like that, it doesn’t stop. It doesn’t accelerate. It doesn’t have lateral grip. All the things it doesn’t do is what makes it great.”
He further added, “Our drivers are truly some of the best in the world. And if anybody wants to challenge me on that bring it all because they are bringing bring your stars bringing superstars… I don’t think you guys can go compete with them either, in their cars. I think it’d be very difficult to do. But you heard what he said he was surprised how many good road racers there are in NASCAR. And it’s a fact. They’re all really good.”
What did Jenson Button say about NASCAR after the race?
Following the race at the Circuit of The Americas, the former F1 world champion had a few positive things to say about the sport. This was his first time racing in the sport, aside from his work in the Hendrick Motorsports Garage 56 car.
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Button spoke to the media to reveal his observations about the sport. During this time, he mentioned how he was “surprised.” Especially by the amount of “really good drivers in NASCAR.” He even admired how well they were able to keep the car in through the corners.
Moreover, Button comes from a world where high downforce is key. Meanwhile, the stock cars are way heavier and lack the amount of downforce in comparison to the Formula 1 car. Hence, despite being a Formula 1 world champion in the past, it was difficult for him to adapt and perform with this sort of car. And this just clarifies that NASCAR is a whole different ballgame.
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Hopefully, after Button’s comments, the negative connotation against NASCAR drivers can die out a bit. It was about time that fans of other motorsports start valuing NASCAR drivers more.