It has become a common complaint during a lot of NASCAR races – a lack of respect among the drivers.
The latest round of complaints came following the Xfinity race on the Martinsville half-mile that is shaped like a giant paper clip.
The Martinsville and Bristol races are always filled with lots of incidents as drivers battle to keep their position in the low groove.
Everyone understands that rubbing is a part of racing on a short track, but there still needs to be a level of respect by the drivers.
Racing through another car on any track is not displaying respect.
Tempers are sure to flare in any form of racing, but it should take place along pit road or where the haulers are parked.
One of the statements I’ve heard many times in recent years is that the young drivers entering the Xfinity and Craftsman Truck Series have a lack of experience and don’t worry about tearing up race cars because some else is footing the bill.
Drivers earn respect among their competitors based on the way they race them on a weekly basis.
Wreck me at a race and you can expect to be wrecked at the next one.
Race me clean and in most cases the other driver will respond in a like fashion.
The other problem in the Xfinity Series is that the fields are not made by drivers with lots of experience.
Officials can tell the drivers to race with respect, but the message when delivered by an experienced driver carries more weight.
Maybe what has to happen is if a driver intentionally takes out another competitor issue the black flag and park them for the rest of the event.
If the behavior continues, suspend them for a race or two. Sooner or later they will get the message.
In other racing news: The 500 Sprint Car Tour and Kenyon Midget Series are set to kick off the 2025 season this weekend at Anderson Speedway.
The two series will be starting on Thursday with a podcast to provide insight and details on upcoming events.
It will be a good way for fans and competitors to keep up with the latest news for the two open wheel series and a preview of the upcoming races.
