I don’t disagree but I’m sick of folks laying all the blame on Nascar. Nascar like UPS is a business, businesses are supposed to grow, especially publicly traded businesses. Sponsors want exposure for their dollars, which brings TV. TV is also a business that needs a return on their investment, which brings commercials. The track owner needs a return on his investment, tickets prices. Fans want tickets, there are only so many seats. Track owner adds seats and the requirements that come along with them. Race teams want high purse payouts (the track owner is responsible for the purse), track owner sells more sponsorship and raises ticket prices.
Careful what you wish for. For years we wanted racing on TV, we got it. We wanted a track near (insert city name here). We got it. Someone has to pay for all that stuff, the fan.
It’s a vicious cycle that basically ends at the fans wallet. Many of the SMI (Speedway Motorsports Inc) owned tracks (That’s Bruton Smith’s operation) require the “Season Ticket” holder to buy tickets to every race held at the facility. Not an Open Wheel Fan? Too bad, you bought tickets. Didn’t want to catch the Nationwide or Truck race? Too bad, you bought tickets.
I do believe that many fans have lost interest in Cup racing, I’m one of them. I have a Nascar license in my wallet that gives me free entry into any Nascar event. I’d rather spend my time at a local short track where guys and gals race for the thrill not the money.