by TC

Created on: March 16, 2007   Last Updated: November 24, 2008

NASCAR's popularity comes from the fact that it invites fans into the sport more than any other sport. The racing draws people in, and for those people who do not watch NASCAR, it is more than just 43 cars running in a circle. NASCAR is more competitive and more difficult that most other forms of racing, including F1. The cars are much heavier, and therefore harder to drive, and it makes for better racing. Unlike some other forms of racing, the start order is not as important. There are some tracks were a driver is much better off starting in the front, but NASCAR is exciting because driver's can come from the back, or even from a lap down at times, to win. Adding to that the strategy involved in pit stops and adjustments to the car, and the fact that these cars can actually push and bump each other while racing 190mph and not crash, and you have some pretty exciting viewing.

While all of that alone makes NASCAR quite popular, its not what makes it as big as it is. More than any other sport, NASCAR makes itself a sport that appeals to everyone. This is done through its massive marketing machine and the appeal of its personalities and the atmosphere surrounding them. NASCAR is the largest and most popular sports marketing machine in the world. It leverages the sponsorship of everyday products that regular people use, drawing them in with brand loyalty. This allows it to make it self known to a much broader audience. In other words, marketing helps them get people the first time. However, is the personalities and atmosphere that keep the people watching. The drivers, while more rich and successful than most of the fans will ever be, come across as real and genuine. People can relate to the guys on the track and most NASCAR drivers are genuinely good role models. The whole atmosphere of NASCAR invites family and group viewing. In a time where many of the celebrities in other sports seem consumed by ego and greed, the personalities and stories in NASCAR are refreshing.

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