Tony Stewart declares that Daytona 500 has lost its elite status
The three -time champion of the Nascar Cup Series, Tony Stewart, has generated controversy in the world of careers with its frank evaluation that Daytona 500, once considered the jewel of the crown of the stock races of Stock Car, has lost its elite status due to what he describes as winners “unreasonable” in recent years.
A legendary breed diminished by luck
Stewart, who has never won the 500 miles of Daytona despite his career in the Hall of Fame, expressed his concerns during an appearance in the “Rubbin Is Racing” podcast. He argued that the race, historically a showcase for the best sport pilots, has become more a matter of luck, where almost anyone can win, regardless of their general ability or performance of the season.
“With regard to Daytona, many people will crucify me for this. For me, it does not mean the same now that 15 or 20 years ago. Anyone can win … They are not pilots who should have won the 500 miles of Daytona and that is all they have won,” Stewart said, emphasizing that many recent winners have few or no other important victory in their history.
Changing dynamics and frustration
Stewart pointed out the changes in the design of the cars and career dynamics as key reasons for this change. The greatest parity between the cars and the importance of the rebu and physical pressure have facilitated the victory of the least experienced pilots. Aggressive driving and frequent accidents in the last round are usually unexpected winners when Nascar freezes the grill after the incidents.
He pointed out that, in the past, the winners of the 500 miles of Daytona used to be champions of several races and constant leaders. Now, Stewart argues, the result of the race depends more on being in the right place at the right time than to demonstrate a higher skill in the races over 800 kilometers.
Would Stewart change his success for a victory in Daytona 500?
Despite his criticism, Stewart admitted that he still longs for a victory in the Daytona 500. He said he would consider changing some of his usual victories in races for the elusive trophy of the Daytona 500, but that he would never change one of his three championships for not even three victories in the Daytona 500.
“No, at all, in any way. I would not change a championship for three trophies of the 500 miles of Daytona,” Stewart said. “Although I no longer feel that I have as much weight as before, it still has weight because it is still the 500 miles of Daytona. It is still the star event of the Nascar calendar; still retains that rich story.”
A race still rich in history, but changed forever
While Stewart acknowledges that Daytona’s 500 miles remain the most prestigious event of the Nascar calendar, he believes that his prestige has been reduced. In his opinion, the career no longer rewarded consistently to the most meritorious or more experience, and their result usually depends on luck and circumstances, instead of the pure excellence in the races.
Despite his frustrations, Stewart’s comments reflect a deep respect for the history of the event and his permanent desire to add a victory in the Daytona 500 to his legacy, even while he regrets how he has changed the race.
