If you’ve ever heard the roar of a stock car on TV and wondered what all the hype is about, you’re in the right place. NASCAR is the biggest name in American stock‑car racing, and its fan base is spreading fast across the pond. Below you’ll find the basics, the biggest events, and the easiest ways to stay connected from the UK.
Unlike Formula 1’s sleek open‑wheel cars, NASCAR runs heavy, V8‑powered stock cars on oval tracks that range from short‑track ovals to the 2.5‑mile superspeedways at Daytona and Talladega. Races are long – often 300‑plus miles – and the excitement comes from drafting, pit‑stop strategy, and the occasional ‘boom’ of a multi‑car crash. The sport also features a points system that rewards consistency, so a driver who finishes in the top‑10 every week can clinch the championship even without winning every race.
Streaming is the easiest route. Services like ESPN+ and NASCAR’s own subscription platform broadcast every race live, and many UK sports packages now include these channels. If you prefer free options, check out highlight reels on YouTube; they capture the biggest moves in under ten minutes. Social media is another goldmine – follow the official NASCAR accounts, as well as popular drivers, for behind‑the‑scenes clips, interview snippets, and race‑day polls.
Want the full fan experience? Look for official NASCAR fan clubs in the UK. They often organize viewing parties for big events like the Daytona 500 and the Championship Race at Phoenix. These gatherings let you meet fellow enthusiasts, swap stories about favorite drivers, and even win merch.
Traveling to the US for a race is doable with a little planning. The most fan‑friendly venues are Las Vegas Motor Speedway and Charlotte Motor Speedway, both within a few hours of major airports. Book tickets early – the lower‑tier grandstand seats go quickly, especially for marquee events. When you’re on a budget, consider a weekend‑ticket package that includes access to the fan zone, where you can meet drivers, try a racing simulator, and soak up the atmosphere without a massive price tag.
For the UK‑based collector, official NASCAR merchandise is available through the online store. Whether you want a replica driver’s cap, a retro‑style tee, or a scale model of a Chevrolet Camaro, the site ships worldwide and often runs sales around big race weekends.
Finally, keep an eye on the NASCAR schedule. The season runs from February (the iconic Daytona 500) through November, so you have plenty of chances to catch a race that fits your calendar. Mark the dates, set a reminder on your phone, and enjoy the high‑speed drama of NASCAR from wherever you are.
Feb, 1 2023
NASCAR racing is an immensely popular motorsport in the United States, but it is also gaining traction in other countries around the world. NASCAR racing has spread to countries such as Canada, Mexico, Germany, Italy, and Japan, where the sport is growing in popularity. These countries host their own NASCAR series, which are run in similar fashion to the US-based series, including the use of stock cars and oval tracks. NASCAR racing in other countries has the same thrills and excitement as the US-based series, but with a unique flair that fits with the local culture.