Winston Cup Era: Before the inception of the current Cup Series in 2014, NASCAR boasted an enthralling era known as the Winston Cup Series, spanning from 1971 to 2003. This period predated the Chase format and held a special place in the hearts of devoted NASCAR fans due to its unique driver lineup and distinctive format.
Recently, attention was drawn to the original contract between NASCAR and the tobacco giant, Winston, personally signed by Bill France himself. This contract, a relic of an iconic 33-year partnership, symbolizes a bygone era that propelled stock car racing to unparalleled heights.
Shared by the prominent NASCAR enthusiast and writer known as “nascarman,” the tweet unveiling this historic contract shed light on its intricacies. Signed by Bill France, the contract outlined various aspects, including driver insurance and criteria for eligibility, which primarily focused on Grand National circuit drivers meeting specific qualifications.
The contract, encapsulated in a 4-page document, showcased a visionary approach by the founder, ensuring both driver-centric perspectives and organizational efficiency, aligning with the community’s desires.
In contrast, recent news highlighted the closure of the revered Winston Cup Museum after 19 years of operation. Known for its remarkable collection of classic NASCAR race cars, the museum faced legal disputes over the usage of the Winston badge. The lawsuits, primarily from tobacco company ITG, led to the unfortunate decision to cease operations and auction off its memorabilia.
Despite efforts to rename the museum and preserve its historical significance, financial constraints resulting from legal battles proved insurmountable. Will Spencer, an individual closely affiliated with NASCAR for over four decades and the museum’s proprietor, amassed a collection of race machines, each carrying its own storied past.
The demise of the Winston Cup Museum represents a loss in preserving NASCAR’s rich history and the legacy associated with the Winston Cup Series, marking the end of an era in the realm of stock car racing.
ALSO READ: The Winston Cup Museum: A Legacy Auction at Mecum Auto Auctions
Our Reader’s Queries
What years were the Winston Cup?
From 1971 to 2003, the NASCAR Winston Cup Series was the premier racing event. It was then replaced by the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series from 2004 to 2007, followed by the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series from 2008 to 2016. The current name of the top racing series is the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, which has been in place since 2017.
When did Nascar get rid of Winston Cup?
From 1971 to 2003, NASCAR’s top-tier racing competition was known as the Winston Cup Series, thanks to its sponsorship by R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company’s cigarette brand, Winston.
What was Nascar called after Winston Cup?
Following its stint as the Grand National Series, the competition adopted the moniker of its sponsors. This resulted in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series, which remained in place from 1971 until 2003. Subsequently, the name underwent several transformations, including the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series, the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, and the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series.
Who won the Winston Cup in 1984?
The race witnessed a whopping 75 lead changes, a feat that remained unbeaten until the 2010 Aaron’s 499, which saw 88 changes and was later matched in 2011. In a nail-biting finish, Cale Yarborough managed to overtake Harry Gant in the final lap and clinch the victory.
