Stewart not only speaks of the inherent risks of racing at speeds over 200 mph, but of an ignored safety crisis. In a recent interview, he stated, “They’re playing Russian roulette with our lives.” He criticized the handling of the Next Gen car, touted as a safety breakthrough, but which he claims suffers from flawed crash protection and unpredictable handling. Despite advancements like the HANS device, Stewart maintains that NASCAR prioritizes profit over safety, ignoring drivers’ concerns. Recent incidents involving figures like Kyle Busch and Chase Elliott have amplified these concerns, recalling past tragedies like those involving Dale Earnhardt and Adam Petty.

Beyond safety, Stewart laments NASCAR’s disconnect with its fans. “It used to be that a NASCAR event was like being part of something big,” he said, adding that sponsorships and television deals now dominate. Commercialization has transformed races into elitist events, with expensive tickets and a less accessible experience. Changes like the “stage racing” format and the playoff system have drawn criticism for prioritizing spectacle over the authenticity of motorsports. For Stewart, NASCAR has forgotten the fans who filled the stands and built the sport, focusing instead on corporate deals that dilute its original spirit.

The three-time champion also denounced the lack of accountability in NASCAR. According to him, drivers who voice concerns face retaliation or are silenced. “We’re not allowed to speak up. If you say something they don’t like, they shut you down,” he said, describing a culture of fear that stifles dissent. This attitude, he asserts, discourages those seeking to improve the sport, leaving drivers vulnerable to decisions that affect their careers and lives.

NASCAR’s future hangs in the balance, and Stewart isn’t optimistic. “If you keep alienating fans and drivers, you won’t have anyone to race for,” he warned. His criticisms are an urgent call to action, urging NASCAR to balance its modernization with the values ​​that made it great. The question is whether the organization will listen or continue down a path that prioritizes profit over the passion that defines motorsports. Stewart’s fury isn’t just a vent, but a fight for the soul of the sport. As he continues his path, his legacy as a critical voice could be the catalyst for necessary change, but time will tell if NASCAR is willing to respond.