Do you think age is just a number, or does it play a critical role, particularly in a domain like sports? There is often a common idea among people that sports require young people only. In reality, a little experience also goes a very long way. Focusing on the same, Brad Keselowski has put forth his take on the same. Moreover, he mentioned how NASCAR often dilutes the importance that one should place on age. 

Keselowski himself started when he was 20 years old. By making an entry into the world of NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, he stole the spotlight. Since then there has been no turning back and Keselowski has swiftly drifted into roles at the Xfinity and Cup Series. Throughout this conversation, he also references how the NFL is on the right track. Well, maybe NASCAR should implement some ideas, eh?

Brad Keselowski suggests the ideal route for kids

There was a time when NASCAR boasted of stars whose aura was captivating enough. Drivers like Jeff Gordon, Richard Petty, and even Rick Hendrick cast a spell on the audience. And every time they hit the track, it seemed magical. However, compared to the current time, there is certainly a lack of star power in the sport. Brad Keselowski puts forth the lack of relatable stars like Mark Martin or even Harry Gant, whose larger-than-life persona attracts sports personalities alike. 

Undoubtedly, inexperienced drivers are getting the limelight without enough time to grow as professionals. In the current context, you will see drivers who are 18 or 19 years old after making it to the best of sports levels at the grassroots level. Surely, new drivers bring in a fresh set of talent and their technical prowess seems to be at the best. Yet, it could impact the risk-taking behavior of individuals as well.

Speaking on the same, Kelley Earnhardt Miller pointed out, “We have some kids with a lot of talent. The key is connecting them to our fan base and the consumers. And then companies because that’s what makes our world go around, right? And you don’t get that opportunity to build their personalities. You know, I have very limited opportunity as an Xfinity team owner to have somebody here maybe two years if they have a lot of talent. And you don’t get that opportunity to build their personalities and show people who they are and all of that to then attract sponsorship and all”.

Pointing out the same, Brad Keselowski suggested NASCAR could probably take a page from the NFL’s playbook!

NFL requires players to be at least three years out of high school before becoming eligible for the draft. If a player graduates at 17, they must wait until they turn 20 to enter the draft. Similarly, if they graduate at 18, they cannot enter until they are 21. The rule ensures that players remain compatible both mentally and physically. It’s proper ideologies in place before entering a world as challenging as the NFL.

Citing the same, he added, “First off, I think Cup should have the same rule as the NFL and some of these other leagues where you can’t be in Cup until you’re in your 20s—whether it’s 20, 21, 22, whatever. And that’s for a couple of different reasons. One, you need an opportunity for them to grow who they are, not just for marketing reasons but even for competitive reasons”. 

Everyone knows Keselowski co-owns RFK Racing, a team that competes at the Xfinity level. Given that Cup series teams signed most Xfinity drivers without giving them much time to flourish completely from the grassroots levels, this deep impact is further felt. Keselowski’s proposition emphasizes the importance of nurturing young talent through gradual development. It ensures they mature as individuals and professionals before stepping onto NASCAR’s grand stage.

Keselowski hints at NASCAR’s “flawed format”

Trending

1

Shell-Shocked Dale Earnhardt Jr Explores 50-Year Old Unsolved Mysteries of His Dad’s Daytona Legacy

2

Kelley Earnhardt Reveals Dale Jr.’s Irresponsible Yet Heartfelt Gesture, Upsetting JRM Financials

3

Roger Penske’s Plan to Overtake NASCAR Revealed by Latest F1 Hire

4

Iconic Rock Band’s $65 Million Reality Check Bursts Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s ‘Hate’ Bubble

5

Shutting Down of Nearly $100 Billion Worth Company Has Bubba Wallace’s Wife in Shambles

The victory of Joey Logano for the third time at the NASCAR Cup Series 2024 had raised quite a few eyebrows. Logano’s unexpected win, despite a lackluster season, disappointed critics. Logano had an average finish of only 7.1 seconds, which seemed the worst for any titleholder till now. Hinting at the same, Keselowski opened up about how flawed the current system is and there is more focus on drama and excitement than actual racing.

Keselowski said, “The current format in my opinion has some flaws, you have to pick the flaws you’re okay with having. So that’s the conversation, what flaws are we okay with having with whatever system. From a NASCAR perspective, you know the format has taken a radical shift. It went from the original format which was all-season long, every race matters you know. 25th at Pocono in June might decide the championship. You don’t know until you get to the end, to Well, one race in Phoenix, there’s a champion you’re like whoa”.

The driver’s 2024 run became pretty impressive after a victory at the Goodyear 400. Although he faced elimination from the Round of 16, he could claim nine top-five and 14 top-ten finishes across 36 races. Keselowski’s remarks highlight the need for NASCAR to strike a balance between preserving the integrity of competition and maintaining the excitement that keeps fans engaged.