Historical Future

It looks as though Nascar has a problem brewing. I'm sure you've all heard about the meeting that all the big team owners had at Hendrick Motorsports last week. After reading the article on speed, I found myself reflecting on the history of open wheel racing in this country.

Many don't realize it was Roger Penske who started CART along with other team owners. Their fights with USAC were the catalyst that created Champ Car. Who can forget the mid 90's when the split between the open wheel factions occurred? They are still feeling the affects from that to this day.

I bring this up because I feel it holds some answers as to what could befall Nascar if they don't watch their step. Without the owners and their drivers, who are all under contract, Nascar ceases to exist.

The owners were looking for ways to make it more affordable to do business. Everything from shorter races to mandatory multiple use of an engine were discussed.

Nascar thinks they hold all the cards. Reality paints a different picture though. While Nascar owns 12 tracks, including both Dega and Daytona, that doesn't guarantee them a full field.

Bruton Smith owns 7 tracks and has the money to do whatever he wants. So, let's imagine a scenario where Nascar really pisses off the team owners. The big 5 owners decide enough is enough and call a meeting with Smith. At that meeting they discuss the possibility of starting a new series. Do you see where I'm going?

There are numerous tracks out there that would provide great racing that have nothing to do with Nascar. Drivers could and would still be able to run in the 500.

I envision something akin to F1. Each team would be able to build a certain number of engines and each engine must be used twice. Other changes would likely be race distance, as well as, a more friendly schedule for the teams. I would also say a shorter season would have to be on the table.

That's what I see on the horizon if Nascar doesn't start listening to the people that drive the sport. Without the owners, who put their heart and soul into their teams, Nascar is dead.

I know it all sounds far fetched, but it's already happened in open wheel racing more than once.

Jeremy