Shaquille O’Neal: The ‘Biggest’ Defender of NASCAR Drivers Being Athletes

As a NASCAR fan, one must have come across lines such as, ‘NASCAR drivers aren’t athletes’ or ‘ What’s so tough about racing in a car?’ Yes, for people who think NASCAR drivers aren’t athletes and it’s everybody’s sport, Shaquille O’Neal has an answer for them.

The NBA heavyweight, who gave the NASCAR machine a try, didn’t forget to let everyone know his feeling. In a specially made car for the former professional basketball player, O’Neal drove 50 laps alongside Dale Earnhardt Jr. How was the experience?

In a report published by Yahoo! Sports, the Los Angeles Lakers legend, stated, “Whoever said these guys aren’t athletes are out of their minds. That was the toughest three hours I’ve ever had in my life. I was fitted for a car, me and Dale raced 50 laps, and I slept for two days after that. I really did.”

“I was terrified. I don’t really get scared by a lot of stuff, but I was freaking terrified. You definitely have to be a great shape to do this,” concluded the NBA legend.

What makes NASCAR drivers stand out?

NASCAR drivers aren’t just any normal human beings who just know how to drive and have speed. They’re extremely high-rated professionals and possess the highest driving skills. Any racing driver across different formats of motorsport is often considered superhuman for their ability to deal with extremities.

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As long as a NASCAR driver is concerned, he or she has to go through the toughest of practices and intense stresses. For example, the drivers have to sit in a single seat for three to four hours straight with immense pressure on their arms and legs. That’s more like doing reps in exercises.

Apart from the hectic workout schedule, the drivers often participate in triathlons. For people who don’t have a clue what triathlon is, it is an athletic contest consisting of cycling, swimming, and long-distance running.

Moreover, in comparison with other sports, NASCAR drivers don’t get enough rest. For example, in soccer or basketball, the players get their rest during half-time, injury to any players, or water breaks. However, that’s not applicable for NASCAR drivers, as they have to race for a constant three to four hours. All in all, NASCAR drivers are no less than athletes.

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