Insider NASCAR Facts That Show The Less Glamorous Side Of The Sport
The blinding speed, the heart-pounding maneuvers, the roar of the engines — this is NASCAR. For nearly a century, this racing giant has played host to the most thrilling stock car races in the world, and with each wave of the checkered flag, the sport has only grown in popularity. Yet, even with such a celebrated legacy, the organization may not be so deserving of a champagne shower after all. So let's pump the breaks and head in for a pit stop, because these scandalous secrets will make racing fans think twice about awarding NASCAR a spot in Victory Lane.
Overheating
While they may not be running all over a field, NASCAR drivers probably sweat more than any other athlete. That's because their cars can get about 40 degrees hotter than the outside temperature on any given day! It's no wonder their insulated suits are such a necessity.
Astronauts on Earth?
It may surprise you, but NASCAR drivers have more in common with astronauts than you might think. For example, both will go to the bathroom in their suits if they need to! While NASCAR drivers don't have sophisticated spacesuits that are equipped for waste removal, they will often do so to avoid losing time on the track.
License not required
Still haven't gotten state driver's license? Well, you might be surprised to learn that this won't prevent you from chasing NASCAR glory! Instead of a regular driver's license, NASCAR has its own form of certification, meaning that you can technically become a professional NASCAR driver without ever having driven on a regular road.
Shedding the pounds
For NASCAR drivers, being overweight is hardly a problem. This is because, according to retired racer Dale Earnhardt Jr., drivers can shed between six and eight pounds during a single race as the result of dehydration! We guess that's just one less thing to worry about.
