Why NASCAR Fans Are Tuning Out

NASCAR is in decline. Attendance at races is down. Television ratings are down. Why is this?

The bad economy argument is weak. It may explain people not attending the races, but it doesn't explain why people aren't watching on TV which is virtually free. The answer is obvious. NASCAR fans are not happy with the product. Stock car racing sucks. Here's why:

1. Junior is a loser.

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. is the most popular driver in NASCAR. The core NASCAR fans root for him. This is because they rooted for his daddy. When Senior died, they transferred their allegiance. The problem is that Junior sucks. This reality is finally settling in. He has a great car. He has changed crew chiefs. But he hasn't secured a Cup win in two years. The hope that he would be like his dad has faded. He is the next Kyle Petty--a decent driver living in dad's shadow.

2. Jimmie Johnson is a winner.

Jimmie Johnson has won the championship four times. NASCAR fans hate Jimmie. This is because he isn't from the South, reminds them of Jeff Gordon, and is pretty damn boring. If he wins a fifth straight championship, NASCAR can say good-bye to another 25% of their audience. Jimmie Johnson is the Pete Sampras of NASCAR.

3. Kyle Busch is a prick.

Busch is the most exciting thing going for NASCAR. He wins races in a brash style. He has undeniable talent. If his name was Dale Earnhardt, Jr., NASCAR would be equal to the NFL in ratings. But Kyle Busch is a prick. He is less like Earnhardt and more like Darrell Waltrip, another famous NASCAR prick who had undeniable talent and a big mouth. Busch will do well and probably win a championship. But he does not have the transcendant appeal that Earnhardt had.

Every sport rises and falls on the popularity of its stars. The NBA has never recovered from Jordan leaving. The NHL needs another Wayne Gretzky. NASCAR needs another Earnhardt. When Dale died, he left a huge hole which was never filled. NASCAR fans desperately want someone to fill it for them, but there is no one. Consequently, stock car racing is in decline. Allowing rough action between drivers nobody gives a shit about is not enough to turn it around.

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