NASCAR Pulls Back in Tough Times

NASCAR and the Detroit Three have followed different paths for decades. While the automakers fought to survive, NASCAR thrived, growing to become America’s No. 1-attended sport, now broadcast in 150 countries and more than 30 languages.

Now, however, the economic downturn has become an equal-opportunity burden, and even NASCAR is feeling the burn. According to The Washington Post, automakers and other sponsors are pulling the rug out from under NASCAR, putting teams and races into jeopardy.

Detroit’s automakers have typically invested heavily in NASCAR, providing direct payments; technical and marketing expertise; title sponsorships to races; and equipment and fleet vehicles to teams. GM alone is rumored to have spent $120 million-$140 million a year at the peak of the racing franchise. The automakers’ chief reasoning was to reach the coveted NASCAR fan, who is considered more brand-loyal than fans of other sports.

Since NASCAR has relied more heavily on its sponsors to function than other sports have, the likely effects could include some team mergers and possibly fewer competitors in races. The Sears Craftsman Truck Series will lose big, with Dodge, Ford and Sears Craftsman pulling out of the series. So, apparently, NASCAR’s Truck Series is looking for a new title sponsor. Anyone interested?

Big Three Automakers' Woes Affect NASCAR's Economy (Washington Post)

Comments

So maybe, just maybe, this will do two things 1) get stock car racing back to its roots... racing stock cars and not just another version of IROC and 2) allow teams in without a huge sponsor. Of course, it could have the opposite effect and only give those like Roush and Hendrick a larger stake in the sport and force the remaining smaller teams out the door. Sad state indeed.

I would love to see this sport die

I would love to see this sport die

Nascar IS Babylon. It is the gladiator fights of our day. To financially make it, I'm surprised they haven't yet tapped into one of the corporate mega churches sponsorships who become richer by preying on the prying during economic hard times. It actually would work.

Nascar isn't babylon. And driving around in circles isn't like fighting in an arena - boy are you bored with life. There is more advertising on one car than there is in all the commercials in a primetime show on TV. It has been tapped, and it is just about done. All those people who go to Nascar are the ones who are losing their jobs, why advertise to them?

Anytime "Sly". I 'll get you in the boxing ring and show you how bored I am with...conversation. hit me up.
jeffwinkowski@yahoo.com

Don't give me another fake phone number or some bulshit excuse like you're in a wheel chair. Even if you are I've got a recommended reading list for you that will knock your ass out.
JEFF WINKOWSKI
FOLLOW THROUGH PERSONAL TRAINING
http://www.myspace.com/FxTxPxTx

Hah hah jeffy! You wouldn't want me in the boxing ring with you. I'd crack your skull in a minute. Besides are you even a man? I looked up that address and it is the women's health center? I thought this place wasn't one where little fellas get on and challenge others to fights because they are an IDIOT! Hah you are very funny. You talk about gladiators, please, your a little douche bag who, if they ever were in a fight, got beat so bad they cried to Mom for days. Get out of here you puss.

So, I like to see this "gladiator fights".