NASCAR's Diversity Efforts: A Long Road Ahead

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) has a rich history spanning 55 years, yet its diversity efforts have been minimal, with no African American drivers competing in the top two levels, the Nextel Cup and Busch Series. However, with Brian France, chairman and CEO, prioritizing diversity, the organization is taking steps to increase minority participation. NASCAR has established a diversity council, opened tracks in urban centers, and is working to showcase black drivers and owners.

Key Takeaways:

• The only African American driver competing in NASCAR's top three levels is Bill Lester, 43, in the Craftsman Truck Series.
• There is currently only one African American team owner, 65-year-old Sam Belnavis, who has a minority stake in Rousch racing.
• NASCAR's diversity council, headed by France, aims to address professional development and build a minority fan base, but some critics argue that the organization is looking for a "Tiger Woods of NASCAR" instead of developing talent from within.
• The cost of fielding a team at the Nextel Cup is approximately $15 million per year, making it challenging for African Americans to enter the sport.
• To increase diversity, experts suggest that NASCAR needs to develop a solid strategy for diversity and increase its efforts to find and train talented young drivers.

Statistics:

• Only 1% of NASCAR's fan base is African American.
• The cost of fielding a team at the Nextel Cup is approximately $15 million per year.
• There are currently no African American team owners in the top two levels of NASCAR.

Sources:

• "The New Face of NASCAR" by Sonia Alleyne and T.R. Witcher, BLACK ENTERPRISE magazine, May 2004.
• PRNewswire, March 17, 2004.