Blog Hound: Bloggers Tend To Agree With Stewart’s Comments

With Tony Stewart on his Sirius Satellite Radio show likening NASCAR to pro wrestling by using caution flags to shape races, a number of racing bloggers agree with Stewart in questioning NASCAR’s credibility.

Kathy’s Pit Stop Posted By: Kathy

“Whether you like him or not, Stewart pointed out something that fans have been questioning for a long time, myself included, especially when they don’t show the debris that brought out the caution. I know NASCAR wants close races and thrilling finishes, but are they manipulating the race with debris cautions?”

Restrictor-Plate This Posted By: Diecast Dude

“It is excessive to claim NASCAR fixes or attempts to pre-determine race outcomes. What is a legitimate complaint stems from NASCAR’s blatant attempts to inject artificial excitement into an event by not allowing said event to happen as it happens.”

The Motorsports Soapbox Posted By: Dave Moody

“I spend a minimum of 20 hours each week talking with race fans around the country, and it’s a concern of theirs, as well. Maybe it’s time we had this debate, allowing NASCAR to make its case, while receiving feedback from a considerable number of disgruntled fans and competitors.”

TaterRacing Posted By: taterracing

“Just stop trying to deceive us! If you throw a caution because you want the field bunched up, say so! We’re not fooled. If all you’re after is better television ratings, then by all means, keep throwing these ‘debris cautions’. Why don’t you use pyrotechnics and scripted play like the WWE does and just throw all competition out the window.”

Mac’s Racing Blog Posted By: Mac McCormick

“In the last few years and particularly during the Nextel Cup period, I have become increasingly disenchanted with the direction NASCAR has taken. It seems that NASCAR has decided to become Entertainment programming rather then a Sporting contest.”

BUILDING THE BUZZ: The Sports Blog Index analyzed "the buzz" from the perspective of the NASCAR brand in light of Stewart’s comments. Click here for more analysis.

• Bloggers generally agree with Stewart that NASCAR probably uses the caution flag to manipulate races to ensure more exciting finishes.
• Most bloggers believe Stewart’s comments were made out of frustration with his performance this season.
• Stewart later blamed his comments on a fever that he was fighting during the radio show.
• Buzz has primarily been on racing-related blogs.
• Only one of the top general sports blogs has commented on the topic.

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