NASCAR Declining Popularity: The decline in NASCAR’s popularity, as indicated by TV ratings, has sparked discussions about the lack of relatable champions. According to former Cup Series driver Dale Earnhardt Jr, this can be attributed to how drivers’ personalities are marketed by their PR teams. On a recent Kenny Conversation episode, Earnhardt criticized teams for not sufficiently showcasing drivers, even Cup champions, in the public eye.
Reflecting on his earlier racing days, Earnhardt highlighted a shift in PR dynamics. In the early 2000s, PR staff were employed by the driver’s sponsors, creating pressure to excel. However, as responsibilities shifted to teams hiring PR teams for drivers, Earnhardt suggested a potential change in the role and motivation of these PR professionals, possibly due to sponsor reluctance in managing the associated costs.
Contrary to common belief, Earnhardt acknowledged NASCAR’s efforts in promoting its drivers, stating that the organization continues to invest similarly to when he was actively racing. However, he expressed concern about teams hindering drivers from displaying their authentic personalities to the public. He referenced Jimmie Johnson, a former teammate and seven-time Cup Series champion, suggesting that the team and sponsor might have limited Johnson’s true persona from being widely known.
The effective marketing and PR representation of drivers play a pivotal role in engaging fans with the sport. There’s a shared sentiment among many that Ryan Blaney possesses relatable qualities for fans, provided he is marketed appropriately. Whether Blaney can effectively connect with fans better than his predecessors remains a question.
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