Dale Earnhardt Jr on avoiding beer during race broadcasts has become a topic of interest after he explained his reasons for staying sober while calling races, even though he is known for enjoying a cold drink in his downtime. Speaking candidly on his podcast, the NASCAR Hall of Famer detailed what drives his professional approach on air, giving fans an unfiltered look at his priorities when broadcasting live events.
Earnhardt Jr. Discusses His Approach During Race Coverage
On a recent episode of his widely followed podcast, Earnhardt Jr. opened up about his mindset during race weekends. Although he built a reputation as a laid-back personality and was considered one of the sport’s ultimate party guys, his attitude shifts when it comes to his on-air responsibilities. While he has fond memories of unwinding at home after races, spending time with friends, and relaxing with a few beers, the atmosphere is different on broadcast days.
As a two-time Daytona 500 victor and once a key figure both on and off the track, Earnhardt Jr. is no stranger to the marketing power of beer. His longtime sponsorship from Budweiser, which appeared on his No. 8 car throughout much of his career, turned his association with beer into a celebrated part of his public image. Unique paint schemes and memorable commercials added to the sense that beer and racing were closely linked in his world, further strengthening his celebrity status within NASCAR.
Fans and Co-Hosts Question His On-Air Choices
The recent discussion on his podcast‘s Ask Jr. segment began when a fan questioned why he didn’t join in for a beer toast after a race while working on the Amazon Prime post-race set with fellow broadcaster Corey LaJoie and race-winner Ross Chastain. As the co-host read out the fan’s inquiry, it prompted a lively conversation about having a beer during broadcasts. A comment surfaced suggesting,
I kinda like the idea of maybe you guys having a beer or two during the broadcast.
—co-host
Why Earnhardt Jr. Refuses Beer When Broadcasting
Earnhardt Jr. was quick to clarify his stance and made it clear that drinking on air is not part of his routine. He explained the reasoning directly to his listeners:
I don’t think so. I wouldn’t want to drink a beer during a broadcast, honestly, because I can’t be my best. If you drink a beer in any activity—beer goes great with activities, I get it—but if I drink one beer, like, I feel the effect of that beer even subtly, right? And so, like, when I’m broadcasting between the flags, I want to be 110%. I want to kick a**.
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR Hall of Famer
Lasting Impact on NASCAR Coverage and Earnhardt Jr.’s Legacy
By setting such a clear boundary, Dale Earnhardt Jr. demonstrates the seriousness with which he approaches his second career in broadcasting. His decision to forgo beer while on air reinforces his dedication to his craft, even as he continues to embrace his well-known persona off the clock. With fans, sponsors, and racing colleagues closely following his work, Earnhardt Jr. reminds audiences that even after decades at the heart of NASCAR, his commitment to excellence still comes first.
