As NASCAR celebrates its 75th anniversary, the organization has decided to upgrade its list of 50 Greatest Drivers by adding 25 more names to it. In the days leading up to the May 14 Goodyear 400 at Darlington Raceway, the 25 new honorees will be added to the list, making it NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers list.
However, the NASCAR community was recently rocked by the announcement of the latest addition to the prestigious list of the 75 Greatest Drivers. Former Cup Series driver Kasey Kahne, who last raced in 2018, was included in this exclusive list, causing widespread shock and disbelief among fans and critics alike.
Kasey Kahne announced as the latest addition to the 75 Greatest Drivers list
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Kasey Kahne was recently named as the latest addition to the list of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers as part of NASCAR’s 75th-anniversary celebrations. Over his 15-year career, Kahne achieved success with several esteemed teams, winning a total of 18 Cup races—seven with Evernham Motorsports, six with Hendrick Motorsports, two each with Gillett Evernham Motorsports and Richard Petty Motorsports, and one with Team Red Bull. In 2004, Kahne was awarded the Rookie of the Year title, solidifying his status as a rising star in the sport.
His iconic wins and moments energized a fan base like few drivers before him!
The newest member of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers List is @kaseykahne! #NASCAR75 pic.twitter.com/iDLoXUi0xE
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) April 10, 2023
While some have lauded the decision, many are questioning the inclusion of Kahne alongside Hall 0f Famer Tony Stewart. Several fans believe that while he did win 18 Cup races and three Coca-Cola 600s, he never won a championship or any of the other major races, such as the Daytona 500 or Brickyard 400. In comparison, Stewart won three Cup championships and 49 races, including the aforementioned marquee events.
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Kasey Kahne’s addition leaves NASCAR fans baffled
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Upon hearing the news, several racing enthusiasts took to social media to voice their skepticism. Some questioned Kahne’s ability as a driver, pointing out that he had only won 18 races in his entire Cup Series career. Others questioned his impact on the sport, noting that he had never won a championship and had finished in the top five just once.
One user tweeted, “You have got to be kidding. Did he ever win a race?” Another wrote, “I like Kasey but it’s a reach to include him in the top 75. He only had 18 wins in the Cup Series.” These sentiments were echoed by many others who felt that Kahne’s inclusion in the list was unjustified.
Another user tweeted, “Say what? Cmon now he’s good but making that list is a stretch,” while someone else wrote, “Really!? This one surprises me. I never felt like he delivered.”
Here are a few more reactions.
Kahne was good, but top 75???? pic.twitter.com/vKQbIGRWyH
— Carlo (@MajesticMeeper) April 10, 2023
I'm 50/50 on this. I guess I can see it. He was impressive, but I don't know about top 75 impressive.
— DNF Racers (@DnfRacers) April 10, 2023
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He shouldn’t be top 75. He had the talent but didn’t fulfill his potential, not even close imo
— Veniceoriginal (@AfroJew84) April 10, 2023
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While there are certainly valid arguments against Kahne’s inclusion in the list, there are also those who believe that he deserves to be recognized for his contributions to the sport. Some fans pointed out that Kahne was one of the most popular drivers of his era, with a massive and dedicated fanbase. Others noted that he had been a consistent performer throughout his career, often finishing in the top ten in races and points.
READ MORE: NASCAR Fans Claim Tony Stewart Should “Give up” as Stewart-Haas Racing Continues to Struggle