Tony Stewart Declares Daytona 500 Has Lost Its Elite Status
Three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Tony Stewart has stirred controversy in the racing world with his blunt assessment that the Daytona 500, once considered the crown jewel of stock car racing, has lost its elite status due to what he describes as “undeserved” winners in recent years.
A Legendary Race Diminished by Luck
Stewart, who has never won the Daytona 500 despite a Hall of Fame career, voiced his concerns during an appearance on the “Rubbin is Racing” podcast. He argued that the race, historically a showcase for the sport’s best drivers, has become more of a “lucky draw” where almost anyone in the field can win, regardless of overall skill or season performance.
“When it comes to Daytona, now I’m going to be crucified by a lot of people for this. In my eyes, it doesn’t mean the same now as it did 15-20 years ago. Anybody can win…they’re not guys that should have won the Daytona 500 and that’s all they’ve won,” Stewart said, emphasizing that many recent winners have few or no other major victories on their resumes.
Changing Dynamics and Frustration
Stewart pointed to changes in car design and race dynamics as key reasons for the shift. The increased parity among cars and the importance of drafting and physical pushing have made it easier for less accomplished drivers to win. Aggressive driving and frequent last-lap crashes often result in unexpected winners when NASCAR freezes the field after incidents.
He noted that in the past, Daytona 500 winners were typically multi-race champions and consistent front-runners. Now, Stewart argues, the race’s outcome is more about being in the right place at the right time than demonstrating superior racing skill over 500 miles.
Would Stewart Trade His Success for a Daytona 500 Win?
Despite his criticisms, Stewart admitted he still longs for a Daytona 500 victory. He said he would consider trading a few of his regular race wins for the elusive Daytona 500 trophy, but he would never swap one of his three championships for even three Daytona 500 victories.
“No, absolutely not okay, no way, I wouldn’t trade a Championship for three Daytona 500 trophies,” Stewart stated. “Even though I don’t feel like it carries as much weight as it used to, it still carries the weight because it’s still the Daytona 500. It is still the marquee event on the NASCAR schedule, it still has that rich history”.
A Race Still Rich in History, But Changed Forever
While Stewart acknowledges the Daytona 500 remains the most prestigious event on the NASCAR calendar, he believes its status has been diminished. The race, in his view, no longer consistently rewards the sport’s most deserving or accomplished drivers, and its outcome is too often determined by luck and circumstance rather than pure racing excellence.
Despite his frustrations, Stewart’s comments reflect a deep respect for the event’s history and his enduring desire to add a Daytona 500 win to his legacy-even as he laments how the race has changed.
