by Joe Beasley

Created on: February 17, 2009   Last Updated: March 01, 2009

When it comes to Nascar drivers, popularity with the fans is evident by simply looking into the grandstand at any given race. You will witness a sea of different colors and driver apparel. One of the key ways to track who the most popular drivers in Nascar are is to simply track souvenir sales of their merchandise from the race track and online. By looking at these sales, as well as the cheers and boos at driver introductions before a race, it is easy to see who the most popular drivers are in this great sport. Below is a list of the 10 most popular drivers in the sport.

10. Michael Waltrip - While very inconsistent on the track, Michael is a favorite among race fans for his attitude, and his comical approach to interviews and commercials. Mikey, as he is known, is NAPA's spokesperson and definitely is good for a laugh on air. While the 2 time Daytona 500 champ struggles at times on the track, his off track humor and excitement more than make up for it to his followers.

9. Kasey Kahne - His boyish good looks and his appeal to women have elevated kahne to a fan favorite, especially with the ladies. Few fans have not seen the Kasey Kahne Allstate commercials in which 4 middle aged women stalk him wherever he goes. Driving the Budweiser car does not hurt in the fan department either.

8. Dale Earnhardt - While no longer with us due to a tragic wreck in 2001, Dale continues to be a favorite amongst the fans. His souvenir sales are still up there with the best of them, and the memories he gave the fans will always be remembered. Dale is the only driver not living to make this list, which shows the popularity of the man known to fans as the Intimidator.

7. Jimmie Johnson - With 3 straight championships, it is no wonder that many are cheering for the Hendrick Motorsports driver. While some are tired of the 48 in victory lane, many appreciate the way he has dominated the sport the past few years.

6. Carl Edwards - Carl's aww shucks attitude and his signature back-flip after a win have elevated this one time substitute teacher to the pinnacle of the sport. He is rapidly becoming one of the most popular drivers with the fans.

5. Tony Stewart - While always controversial, Tony has a very solid base of fans and always shoots from the hip when it comes to whats on his mind. He is, much like Jeff Gordon, a love him or hate him driver with the fans. One doesn't have to look too hard to find a Tony Stewart shirt and hat in the crowd.

4. Jeff Gordon - While cheers and boos both accompany

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