Do you have a hunch that real American racing is making a comeback? Do you dream of competing on the biggest stages in front of passionate fans? Do you see yourself as the next Richard Petty or Dale Earnhardt? If so, congratulations! You’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will teach you everything you need to know to start your own speedway racing team, including the ins and outs of fundraising, setting up shop, and more.
The Rise In Popularity
It’s no secret that motorsports were hit hard by the pandemic. While the world was focused on safety and social distancing, the motorsports industry was mostly closed down, leaving teams and drivers with nothing to do. This may have contributed to the increasing popularity of motorsports, especially at the grassroots level, as people sought ways to engage with others and stay active.
The motorsport industry may not be at full capacity yet, but it is gradually making its way back. The most popular motorsport to date is undoubtedly motorcycle racing, with several rounds of the Supersport World Championship being held as stand-alone meetings or in conjunction with traditional festivals like Daytona and Motegi. Race promoters are also looking toward the future, with plans for a 24-mile electric race in London in 2030 that will be open to anyone with a suitable motor vehicle.
The Differences In Size
It’s not just the enthusiasm that makes a difference; it’s everything. Each motorsport is a bit different, and that’s what makes them so appealing. Take Formula One for example, the pinnacle of motorsports and the most popular racing formula in history. Although Formula One began as a formula for racing cars, these days it’s more of a framework for creative designers who want to experiment with new cars and exciting track designs.
Formula One doesn’t have the biggest races or the most famous drivers. Rather, it’s the opposite: it has an incredibly small field of racing enthusiasts compared to other sports. However, what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in passion. It’s one of the only sports where you’ll see many, many passionate fans. Even when the races are not on, you’ll still see many Formula One fans at hotels and restaurants around the world, passionately talking about the sport.
It’s the same with rallying. The World Rally Championship (WRC) was created in 1971 and originally contested a single-speedway event, the Stages of Scotland. It became a yearly event in 1974 and eventually comprised of multiple rounds throughout Europe. In recent years, the WRC has become a bit more progressive, with numerous rounds now being held in conjunction with traditional festivals like Deutsche Arbeiterschützenfest, the Österreichische Ehrenmalpflege, and the Scandinavian Championship. The biggest difference between motorsport and traditional sports is certainly the scale: while football and baseball are organized by international federations, motorsport competitions are largely independent from one another and are typically run by local promoters interested in bringing money into their local economies.
Where Do You Stand?
Now is the perfect time to start a motorsport team, whether you’re a seasoned driver or an enthusiast who’s never given it a thought. The economy is on the up, and there’s a never-ending stream of sponsorship opportunities available. The only downside is the lack of experienced drivers. If you’re looking to get into racing, you’ll have to begin small until you can garner enough support to buy a reliable car.
The good news is that, as with any other sport, the more you put in it, the more you get out of it. Even beginners can become competent drivers after a few months of practice. And if you ever wondered how professional drivers spend their time, wondering where they find the energy, adrenaline, and focus to match their on-track talent, wonder no more! During practice, simulation, and qualifying sessions, the drivers are put through their paces, pushing their vehicles to the limits, sometimes beyond. The stress of driving in such competition is surely what fuels their impressive on-track performances.
What Else Should You Know?
Do you want to be the next great American racing driver? Do you want to follow in the footsteps of some of the greatest? The road to racing glory isn’t easy, and it certainly doesn’t happen overnight. It takes dedication, practice, and most importantly, capital. Without sufficient funds, you’ll never be able to develop your own team of drivers or afford the raw materials to build your own cars. It’s important to note that, although it can help, traditional funding is not required for individuals or small teams to enter racing. Many drivers and teams have risen through the ranks of popularity and become reputable competitors, earning them a spot on a team, or having themselves become a team, after winning a bit of money on the side through tips, betting, or selling their sportswatch pens.
If you’re passionate about racing, consider all the aspects of running a team. From branding to marketing to fundraising, you’ll have to put in the hours to learn the ropes. If you’re looking to get started, the next step is to find a local motorsport club and see how you can make a difference. You can also check out the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) for more information on how to get involved in international racing and what to expect from it. Good luck out there!