Tony Stewart (14) Stewart-Haas Racing Haas Automation Chevrolet SS during practice for the Dash Cup Series Bass Pro Retailers NRA Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol, TN.
Jeffrey Vest | Icon Sportswire | Getty Photos
A new racing collection created to revive the quick-keep track of glory times will ban the Confederate battle flag, just like NASCAR did.
Celebrity Racing Expertise (SRX) is a new sequence that will function 6 races by means of a quick-monitor circuit on Saturday nights starting in 2021. The series’ creators involve racing icons Tony Stewart, Corridor of Fame crew main Ray Evernham and The Montag Group, a New York-based mostly sports activities and enjoyment company.
Just after the race was introduced, CNBC contacted SRX to seek out clarity on the flag and was explained to the Confederate flag would not be provided at long run competitions.
“We are likely to be an inclusive sequence with drivers and fans from assorted and multinational backgrounds. We will not condone action or habits that produces an unwelcoming or offensive atmosphere for any of our followers or motorists,” an SRX spokesperson instructed CNBC.
ViacomCBS and the company’s CBS All-Obtain subscription support will broadcast the SRX situations. The partnership will be a joint- financial enterprise between CBS and SRX.
NASCAR banned the Accomplice flag on June 10, two weeks just after the death of George Floyd. Driver Bubba Wallace, who is Black, was one particular of the supporters at the rear of banning the flag.
“The existence of the accomplice flag at NASCAR functions runs contrary to our commitment to giving a welcoming and inclusive setting for all lovers, our rivals and our sector,” the corporation stated in a statement at the time.
SRX wants to rejuvenate a shorter-keep track of racing fanbase that is common in the Southeast and Midwest components of the place. The International Race of Champions sequence begun in 1974 highlighted legendary racers from Dale Earnhardt, Mario Andretti, Mark Martin, and Stewart, folded in 2006.
In accordance to the statement, the Montag Team will direct organization operations for the SRX and Evernham will oversee all racing things to do. George Pyne, the former COO of NASCAR and the latest CEO of Bruin Athletics Funds, a sports financial investment agency, is a member of the SRX board and will serve as an advisor.
On a call with reporters, Pyne claimed the series is “no unique from IROC,” and the SRX format for the races will “possible be two 45-moment formats in quite remarkable environments.”
Requested about the narrative of SRX competing versus NASCAR, Stewart downplayed the suggestion, stating SRX isn’t really in competition with NASCAR “by any signifies” and wants to have “separation” from the firm.
“We are not likely head-to-head in opposition to NASCAR, we’re not jogging on the same evenings as NASCAR,” Stewart stated. “It truly is not intended to be levels of competition for anyone. It truly is meant to carry a merchandise which is a demand that the enthusiasts are inquiring for, admirers want to see.
“This is a ideal prospect for a good deal of motorists like myself to be ready to get again, contend against just about every other in a numerous model of racing.”
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