Fans Stand Behind Rick Hendrick Backed Bubba Wallace’s Prodigy After Commendable NASCAR Feat

It takes more than talent or skill as a racecar driver to break through on the NASCAR stage. A good family background, backing by a prominent sponsor, or sometimes just dumb luck can help young drivers make their mark on the sport. However, Rajah Caruth had to leap multiple barriers and stereotypes in order to have that breakthrough opportunity.

Historically, NASCAR didn’t have a lot of black drivers, and there was a lack of representation for them to enter the sport. Wendell Scott was the one who paved the way for black drivers in the early days of NASCAR racing. Bubba Wallace from 23XI Racing has led the charge in the Cup Series, winning multiple races, and Rajah Caruth is now in the ranks to carry on this baton.

At 22, Rajah Caruth is NASCAR’s youngest black driver who is backed by Rick Hendrick and is competing in just his second season in the Truck Series. Having clinched a historic win at Las Vegas, Caruth is competing to win his maiden championship. But for him, racing in NASCAR is more than just about winning; it’s about bringing in more diversity and encouraging more young kids to follow in his career path.

“As a child watching NASCAR, there were very few drivers that looked like me. Being a young black man is evident about the representation because you look at other forms of sports and entertainment where we have a lot of presence in it. That’s not the case in racing…I’m driving for diversity so that others behind me can do the same. I think my hope for the future, leave the sport better than I came in.” Caruth said this to GMA.

Only three black drivers have been able to win a national series race, and this is something the young driver is looking to change. It’s not just Caruth, but NASCAR themselves have been putting in the effort to make the sport more inclusive. Caruth’s dream of being a NASCAR driver was kickstarted by the program Drive For Diversity. And after this interview, the fans are hoping for the driver to reach the top level and take the reigns from Bubba Wallace in the Cup Series.

Fans rally behind Rajah Caruth for creating a positive impact in NASCAR

2024 has been a huge turnaround year for Caruth. After being uncertain about his plans, he was backed by Rick Hendrick to drive the No. 71 Spire Motorsports truck. And he’s made the most of this opportunity, reaching the Round of 8 in the playoffs. This meteoric rise has garnered him the support of the fans. “Rajah is so awesome. Been rooting for him in the trucks this year.”

Rick Hendrick is the owner of NASCAR’s winningest team, and it’s fair to say he’s got an eye for talent. And his decision to sponsor the #71 team for the entire year has proved to be a success. Remember, he was the one who helped Kyle Larson get back on his feet after the Chip Ganassi debacle. Seeing Caruth repaying the faith shown by the veteran team owner, this fan opined, “I am very optimistic for Rajah. Rick has an eye for talent. If he thinks Rajah is worth the investment, I believe it.”

NASCAR has always revolved around the star drivers, and their inspiring stories are something that has attracted fans to the sport. Caruth, having made the breakthrough, is now making strides in getting his story out. And this gesture was appreciated by this user on Reddit. “I think he made the right move for his career (and NASCAR) with this appearance.”

Bubba Wallace is closely associated with Caruth, but the 23XI Racing star has often found himself at odds with the fans. But Caruth has managed to keep himself out of trouble and looks level-headed for a young driver. And according to this race fan, this is the sort of mentality Hendrick Motorsports looks for in their driver apart from racing talent. “Seems like a good dude; Hendrick will bring him along the right way!”

There were a few naysayers who took offense to Caruth’s appearance on the GMA and sharing his story. But this was quickly shut down by a race fan, stating how this type of content brings light to a sport like NASCAR, which is desperately trying to find new viewers. “I don’t get why people in this comment section are so negative about this, especially when it brings in positive light.”

Rajah Caruth managed a P3 finish in the playoff race at Talladega Superspeedway on Friday and is just 5 points shy of the safe zone going into Miami Homestead weekend.