The History of NASCAR
From moonshine runners evading federal agents on back roads to the roar of 40 cars at Daytona—discover how stock car racing became America's motorsport.
Born from Moonshine
NASCAR's roots trace back to the Prohibition era (1920-1933) in the American South. Bootleggers needed fast cars to transport illegal whiskey while evading federal revenue agents on winding mountain roads.
These moonshine runners modified their cars for speed and handling, becoming expert mechanics and fearless drivers. When Prohibition ended, they had fast cars and driving skills—but nothing to do with them.
Informal races began on beaches and dirt tracks across the South. Drivers like Junior Johnson—who served time for moonshining before becoming a NASCAR legend—brought their outlaw spirit to organized racing.
"If it hadn't been for whiskey, NASCAR wouldn't have been formed."— Junior Johnson, NASCAR Hall of Famer
Bill France Sr. and the Birth of NASCAR
William Henry Getty France, a mechanic and race car driver from Washington D.C., moved to Daytona Beach, Florida in 1935. He saw the potential in organizing the chaotic world of stock car racing.
On December 14, 1947, France gathered 35 drivers, mechanics, and promoters at the Streamline Hotel in Daytona Beach. Over three days, they hammered out rules and structure for a new racing organization.
NASCAR was officially incorporated on February 21, 1948. France's vision was simple: create consistent rules, guarantee prize money, and build a professional sport from regional chaos.
The France Family Legacy
The France family has controlled NASCAR since its founding. Bill France Sr. passed leadership to Bill France Jr. in 1972, who transformed it into a national sport. Today, Jim France serves as CEO, continuing the family's 75+ year stewardship.
75+ Years of Stock Car Racing
The Moonshine Era
During Prohibition, bootleggers in the American South modified their cars to outrun federal agents while transporting illegal whiskey. These souped-up vehicles and skilled drivers would form the foundation of stock car racing.
NASCAR is Founded
Bill France Sr. meets with drivers and promoters at the Streamline Hotel in Daytona Beach, Florida, on December 14, 1947. NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) is officially incorporated on February 21, 1948.
First Strictly Stock Race
The first NASCAR Strictly Stock (now Cup Series) race is held at Charlotte Speedway on June 19, 1949. Jim Roper wins driving a Lincoln, but the race is remembered for the disqualification of Glenn Dunnaway for illegal modifications.
Daytona International Speedway Opens
Bill France Sr. opens the 2.5-mile Daytona International Speedway, transforming NASCAR forever. The first Daytona 500 is won by Lee Petty in a photo finish so close it takes three days to determine the winner.
The Modern Era Begins
R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company becomes the title sponsor, creating the Winston Cup Series. The schedule is reduced from 48 to 31 races, prize money increases dramatically, and NASCAR enters the modern era.
The Fight Heard Round the World
The Daytona 500 is broadcast live flag-to-flag on CBS for the first time. The race ends with a crash between Cale Yarborough and Donnie Allison, followed by a fistfight on national TV, introducing NASCAR to millions of new fans.
The Brickyard 400
NASCAR races at Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the first time. Jeff Gordon wins the inaugural Brickyard 400, symbolizing NASCAR's growth from regional Southern sport to national phenomenon.
A Dark Day at Daytona
Dale Earnhardt Sr., the seven-time champion known as "The Intimidator," dies in a last-lap crash at the Daytona 500. His death leads to major safety improvements including the HANS device and SAFER barriers.
The Chase Format
NASCAR introduces the "Chase for the Championship" playoff format, resetting the top 10 drivers' points with 10 races remaining. This creates more drama and keeps more drivers in championship contention.
Next Gen Era
NASCAR announces the Next Gen car, featuring a completely redesigned chassis, independent rear suspension, and sequential gearbox. The car debuts in 2022, creating closer, more competitive racing.
The Greatest NASCAR Drivers
These drivers defined eras, created rivalries, and became American sports icons.
Richard Petty
"The King"
7
Championships
200
Wins
The King of NASCAR. His 200 career wins and 7 championships are records that may never be broken. His iconic #43 Plymouth became synonymous with stock car racing.
Dale Earnhardt Sr.
"The Intimidator"
7
Championships
76
Wins
The Intimidator defined aggressive racing. His black #3 Chevrolet struck fear into competitors. His death in 2001 transformed NASCAR safety forever.
Jimmie Johnson
"Seven-Time"
7
Championships
83
Wins
The most dominant driver of the 2000s, winning an unprecedented five consecutive championships (2006-2010). His partnership with Chad Knaus revolutionized team strategy.
Jeff Gordon
"Wonder Boy"
4
Championships
93
Wins
The Rainbow Warrior brought NASCAR to a new generation of fans. His rivalry with Dale Earnhardt defined the 1990s and helped NASCAR achieve mainstream popularity.
Dale Earnhardt Jr.
"Junior"
0
Championships
26
Wins
NASCAR's most popular driver for 15 consecutive years. Carrying his father's legacy, Junior became the sport's biggest ambassador and a beloved figure in American motorsport.
Kyle Busch
"Rowdy"
2
Championships
63
Wins
One of the most talented and controversial drivers in NASCAR history. His ability to win in any series (Cup, Xfinity, Trucks) is unmatched in the modern era.
America's Greatest Speedways
From superspeedways to short tracks, these venues have hosted NASCAR's greatest moments.
Daytona International Speedway
The World Center of Racing. Home of the Daytona 500, NASCAR's most prestigious race, often called the "Super Bowl of Stock Car Racing."
Talladega Superspeedway
The biggest and fastest track in NASCAR. Known for pack racing and dramatic finishes, Talladega produces some of the most exciting races each year.
Bristol Motor Speedway
The Last Great Colosseum. This high-banked half-mile bullring creates intense, contact-heavy racing that fans love. "It's Bristol, Baby!"
Charlotte Motor Speedway
The home track of NASCAR, located in the heart of the racing industry. Hosts the prestigious Coca-Cola 600 on Memorial Day weekend.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
The Racing Capital of the World. NASCAR's inclusion at this legendary venue marked the sport's arrival as a major American motorsport.
Martinsville Speedway
NASCAR's oldest track, dating to 1947. Winners receive a grandfather clock trophy. The paperclip-shaped track produces legendary battles.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was NASCAR founded?
NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) was officially incorporated on February 21, 1948, by Bill France Sr. The organizational meeting took place at the Streamline Hotel in Daytona Beach, Florida, on December 14, 1947.
Why is it called "stock car" racing?
The term "stock car" originally meant cars that were "stock" or unmodified from the factory. Early NASCAR races used regular production cars that fans could buy at dealerships. While modern NASCAR vehicles are purpose-built race cars, they still resemble production models from manufacturers like Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota.
What is the Daytona 500?
The Daytona 500 is NASCAR's most prestigious race, held annually at Daytona International Speedway in Florida. First run in 1959, it's often called the "Super Bowl of Stock Car Racing" and traditionally opens the NASCAR Cup Series season. The race covers 500 miles (200 laps) and offers the largest purse in NASCAR.
Who has won the most NASCAR championships?
Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt Sr., and Jimmie Johnson each won 7 NASCAR Cup Series championships. Petty and Earnhardt dominated different eras (1960s-70s and 1980s-90s respectively), while Johnson won his seven titles from 2006-2016, including an unprecedented five consecutive championships.
How fast do NASCAR cars go?
NASCAR Cup Series cars can reach speeds over 200 mph on superspeedways like Daytona and Talladega. At intermediate tracks, speeds typically range from 180-190 mph. The cars produce approximately 670 horsepower from their 5.86-liter V8 engines.
What is restrictor plate racing?
Restrictor plates (now called tapered spacers) are devices that limit airflow to the engine, reducing horsepower and top speed at superspeedways like Daytona and Talladega. This creates pack racing where cars run close together, often leading to dramatic multi-car crashes called "The Big One."
Create Your NASCAR Track Poster
Celebrate your favorite NASCAR tracks with a personalized poster— featuring track layouts, statistics, and your custom details.