Ryan Blaney recognizes the positive aspect of the ongoing debate about the absence of prominent figures in NASCAR. During the peak in the 90s and early 2000s, the sport featured notable stars like Jeff Gordon and Dale Earnhardt, who had the ability to attract a significant number of dedicated fans. However, currently, there is a lack of individuals who possess the charisma and influence to transcend the boundaries of the sport.
However, the current Cup champion, Ryan Blaney, has a different view. He believes that all participants in NASCAR are superstars in their own right and have unique qualities. Blaney, who drives the No. 12 Team Penske Ford Mustang, states that all drivers on the track have achieved success through individual approaches.
Blaney also highlights the various strategies employed by drivers to promote themselves. Some venture beyond the race track, engaging in activities that expand their popularity, while others focus exclusively on the racing community. The reigning champion demonstrates a strong sense of optimism regarding the branding potential of NASCAR drivers.
When discussing the process of turning drivers into stars, Blaney emphasizes that replicating the success of drivers like Jeff Gordon is unattainable. The era of drivers winning ten or more races in a season and dominating the field has passed. Currently, the value of a star is determined by how effectively racing teams promote their entire roster of drivers, rather than relying on a select few.
Blaney’s argument is valid in the sense that, with the right marketing strategies, NASCAR teams can elevate their drivers to superstar status in the digital age. However, it is unlikely to expect all 36 drivers to reach this level of fame, as there will always be a few select ones who have the ability to attract a larger fan base.
