Dale Earnhardt Jr. urges NASCAR drivers to watch the ‘Earnhardt’ docuseries, encouraging them to gain a deeper connection to the roots of the sport. Sharing his thoughts in a recent online segment, Earnhardt Jr. believes that viewing the documentary will help modern drivers understand where NASCAR came from and how far it has progressed.
Reflecting on NASCAR’s Evolution and Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s Legacy
NASCAR has undergone significant changes over the years, departing from its raw and gritty origins. Dale Earnhardt Sr., a legendary name in the sport, is still remembered by fans and peers alike more than twenty years after his passing. His achievements on the track and his charismatic presence have continued to influence the sport long after his career ended.
With the release of the ‘Earnhardt’ docuseries on Prime Video, the story of Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s impact on racing is gaining new attention. Dale Jr., who balances his roles as a team owner, entrepreneur, podcaster, and part-time driver, found his schedule even busier with the debut of the series. During a live broadcast of the ‘Dale Jr. Download’ on YouTube, he took time to address questions from fans about his father‘s legacy and the significance of the new show.
Personal Reflections on Sharing the Series with Family
When discussing the premiere, Earnhardt Jr. recounted his own family’s reactions, particularly those of his daughters, Isla and Nicole. While he expected his children to be captivated by their grandfather‘s story, the experience proved otherwise.
“Nicole slept the whole thing, and Isla was ready to leave after 15 minutes. So, you got it in your mind that it’s going to be great, they’re going to love it, they’re going to see this and go, ‘Wow, my papa!’”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., Team Owner and Entrepreneur
Encouraging Drivers to Reconnect with NASCAR’s Origins
Beyond his family, Earnhardt Jr. is passionate about exposing today’s drivers to the documentary. He feels that the ‘Earnhardt’ docuseries is not just for devoted fans or newcomers, but particularly relevant for those competing on track now.
“I want the fans to watch it, the die-hard fans, the new fan, all those, but really, who I want to watch it are the current cup drivers. I don’t know why, but I just badly want them to check it out.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., Team Owner and Entrepreneur
According to Junior, the show provides insight into Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s life and the world other drivers inhabited in past decades. He feels this portrayal offers valuable perspective on how the sport operated during the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, both in the garage area and walking through the pits.
“This really kind of tells you what the sport was like, what it was like to be in the garage or walking through the pits in that era, back in the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., Team Owner and Entrepreneur
For drivers who may not have had family ties to NASCAR or who joined the sport later, the series acts as an educational tool, illuminating the evolution of racing culture. Dale Jr. observes that while technical innovation has occurred, the emotional landscape has shifted dramatically.
“The sport has changed so much, not technically, but emotionally. And the vibe, too. I think it’ll be fun and educational for them. Maybe it will give them a real appreciation for how good things are today,”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR Hall of Famer
Making the Case for Required Viewing
Wrapping up his remarks, Earnhardt Jr. expressed a wish for the docuseries to become essential viewing for NASCAR Cup drivers. He questioned how many would actually take the time to watch it, but hoped the series would eventually be seen as a must-see for those racing at the top level.
“I don’t know how many of the current Cup drivers will watch it. I’m sure there’s a good dozen, but it’d be cool if it was required viewing.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., Team Owner and Entrepreneur
The docuseries not only tells the story of a racing icon but also serves as a bridge between NASCAR’s storied past and present. With Dale Earnhardt Jr. inspiring today’s competitors to look back at the sport’s defining eras, the hope is that drivers will gain greater appreciation for those who paved the way and carry forward the proud traditions of NASCAR as it continues to evolve.
