Dale Earnhardt Jr. , a 15-time Most Popular Driver, is no stranger to the NASCAR world, and these days, it looks like he's stepping outside to talk about his beliefs.  His latest notion involves the future of the sport and the tracks they race on.  He's not thrilled about the idea of the sport moving from the USA to Brazil.

He has a point.  Other drivers seem to have differing opinions.  The twist is that he is not against the idea of growing the sport, he’s just not sure it is the right time.  Dale Jr. has a few reservations and he thinks he has a better idea.

A lot of energy and time would be spent on this new location.  Dale Jr. thinks that this is a massive expenditure of resources, that people don't care about, and may not be worth it.  He is instead, choosing to focus on the nostalgia and thrill of traditional tracks.  He is the face of core NASCAR, and is responsible for reviving the North Wilkesboro Speedway, a track that was neglected since 1997.  Dale Jr. has seen the effects of expansion and it is not good

NASCAR fans have seen some changes recently.  On the interest front, they've seen the return of the legacy racetracks with the Cook Out Clash, which has been away for many years.  They also saw the excitement of the crowd, but they also saw drivers crashing to the ground.  Even with crashes, the sport managed to attract people from 44 states, five countries, and three continents.

Most of the drivers and fans are ecstatic about the return to traditional tracks. They remember when it was all the sport needed.  They think that fans will find it exciting and enjoyable.  Dale Jr. thinks that the rejuvenation of old tracks is the way to go.

Others disagree though.  They want to expand the sport.  They believe it will help the sport grow.  In his opinion, they see no reason to hesitate.

This conversation is nothing new, but there’s a fresh perspective to it. NASCAR, which went global in 1998, is once again contemplating expansion overseas. The idea of having a race in Brazil has been circulating.  It will be a long road to get there though.

Denny Hamlin supports this idea.  He thinks that NASCAR is a sport that has the potential to grow.  He doesn't think it should be limited to only certain countries or particular events.  It can go anywhere and be successful

Chase Elliott is another driver that is interested in the possibility of international races.  He thinks it can be good for the sport.  The closest thing they have to international racing is the Mexico City race.  It's important though, as it's the first foreign points-paying event since 1998.  The last time the sport was held in Mexico, it was a huge success.

It's clear NASCACR's goal is to grow the sport, reach new fans, and bring excitement to this season.  They're trying to do that by racing in new locations.  The debate between Dale Earnhardt Jr. and other drivers is on the table, but we'll have to wait and see what NASCAR decides in the end.

Old Tracks vs New Tracks: Dale Earnhardt Jr. Speaks Out

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