Former NASCAR driver turned entrepreneur, Michael Waltrip, is not only known for his racing career but also for his latest venture into the world of brewing. From the thrill of racing cars to crafting beer formulas, Waltrip’s $20.31 million brewery dream is making waves in both the beer industry and motorsports world.
After an illustrious racing career that saw him compete in 462 NASCAR Cup Series races without a victory, Waltrip eventually rose to fame with two Daytona 500 victories. Now, he is setting his sights on conquering the beer market with the launch of Michael Waltrip Brewing Company.
In a recent exclusive interview, Waltrip shared the inspiration behind his brewing endeavor, which stemmed from a casual golf outing with friends in Napa Valley. The idea of creating their own beer sparked during this trip, leading to the creation of the Michael Waltrip Taproom in Bristol, Virginia.
As the Chief Fun Officer of the brewery, Waltrip, along with his partners Bryan R. Sperber and J. Glynn Gross, has ambitious plans for the future. They aim to open 100 taprooms in the next five years, with the most recent one opening near the Charlotte Motor Speedway in May 2024.
Drawing parallels between his racing career and the beer business, Waltrip emphasizes the similarities in mindset and approach required for success. He views the brewery venture as another high-octane endeavor that demands dedication, hard work, and a thirst for excellence.
Not content with just dominating the beer market, Michael Waltrip Brewing Company made its mark in the motorsports world last year when their brand adorned a Top Fuel car in the NHRA. The partnership with NHRA star Tony Schumacher showcased the brewery’s presence beyond the beer taps and into the fast-paced world of drag racing.
With a blend of passion for beer and a taste for adventure, Michael Waltrip’s foray into the brewing industry is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and drive for success. As he continues to expand his brewery empire, one thing is clear – Michael Waltrip is not just a racing legend but also a brewing visionary on the rise.
