Race Car Drivers

The most popular types of vehicle racing in the United States are drag, stock car, and open wheel.

In drag racing, two drivers compete to be the faster driver on a straight course (i.e., a drag strip) that is usually one-quarter of a mile in length. The losing driver is eliminated from competition, and the winning driver competes against other drivers in additional drag races until a driver defeats all the other racers. At its Camping World Drag Racing Series events, the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) says that “fans may see more than 200 classes of vehicles in 15 categories, or eliminators. Class eligibility is based on requirements that include type of vehicle, engine size, vehicle weight, allowable modifications, and aerodynamics.”

In stock car racing, drivers race production-based cars (called stock cars) on oval tracks with steeply banked turns. They drive counterclockwise on short tracks (under one mile), Speedway tracks (one to two miles), and Superspeedway tracks (over two miles). Races typically are held over two days. On day 1, drivers drive as fast as possible while completing a set number of laps. Their qualifying speed is used to decide their starting position in the next day’s main race. The fastest driver starts at the front of the line of competitors in the main race. Once the main race begins, drivers compete to be the fastest vehicle to complete the race. Race distances vary from 200 to 600 miles.

In open-wheel racing, drivers pilot single-seat vehicles that have an open-air cockpit and uncovered wheels that are placed away from the vehicle’s body. The vehicle’s engine is typically located behind the driver. Competitors typically race on oval tracks, but also on closed public streets or on courses that are designed and built to mimic public street conditions. Open-wheel race car drivers compete to be the fastest to complete the course. Open-wheel racing is also known as formula car racing and single-seat car racing.

Race car drivers compete on racetracks throughout the United States and the world. For example, there are 120 member tracks across North America that host NHRA competitions. The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) has more than 20 tracks and speedways in the United States.

Race car drivers have other responsibilities in addition to racing vehicles. They must practice and develop their driving and strategic skills, as well as work to stay in shape so that they are in optimal physical condition during competition. Drivers meet with the team manager and support crew to discuss racing strategies and issues regarding their vehicle. They regularly interact with fans at racetracks and at meet-and-greets. Drivers also work to promote themselves and their driving team, as well as sponsors and racing organizations, at organized events and in the media. Many drivers have a strong presence on social media.