Dale Earnhardt Jr. Urges NASCAR to Retain Track Ownership for Future of Racing

Dale Earnhardt Jr. has voiced significant concerns about the future of oval racing amid an ongoing antitrust lawsuit involving NASCAR and two racing teams: 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports. On his podcast, Earnhardt warned that if NASCAR were to lose ownership of the racetracks it operates, it could have devastating consequences for the sport.

Currently, NASCAR and Speedway Motorsports Inc. hold ownership of most tracks used in the Cup Series. Earnhardt emphasized that if this control were relinquished, many tracks might face closure, leading to a steep decline in both oval and short track racing. He stated, “Be careful what you wish for. No one is building race tracks. Running a race track today is not a lucrative operation. If NASCAR and Marcus [Smith] don’t own these race tracks, they are going to turn into developments.”

The Implications of Losing Track Ownership

Earnhardt’s concerns reflect a broader anxiety within the racing community about the sustainability of racetracks. His sister, Kelley Earnhardt, who joined him on the podcast, compared operating a racetrack to managing a farm. She noted that without substantial scale, such operations struggle to remain viable. Moreover, the land used for tracks is often more valuable than the racing business itself.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. elaborated, “If NASCAR or really anyone were off to selling race tracks, one after the other, they’re gonna be gone and disappear. We are not gonna have these big ovals and short tracks and all this stuff. This sport would just change incredibly.” His remarks underscore a fear that the racing landscape would shift dramatically, potentially favoring street courses over traditional tracks.

The antitrust case has reached a critical juncture. Judge Kenneth D. Bell had previously warned that the trial could lead to severe consequences for NASCAR, suggesting that the organization might be forced to divest its racetracks based on the outcome. As the lawsuit progresses, both NASCAR and the involved teams understand the stakes are high, particularly if the teams claim victory.

Future of Oval Racing at Stake

With the possibility of a significant restructuring looming, the racing community is left to ponder the future of the sport. Earnhardt’s warnings serve as a clarion call for fans and stakeholders alike to recognize the potential impact of the legal proceedings. The loss of NASCAR’s ownership of racetracks could fundamentally alter the character of American motorsport.

As the situation develops, the implications for racing fans and participants will become clearer. For now, the emphasis remains on the need for NASCAR to retain control over the tracks to ensure the continued existence of traditional racing formats. The outcome of this legal battle could either safeguard or jeopardize the future of oval racing in the United States.