For generations rookie drivers in NASCAR have had a yellow stripe on their bumpers to signify that they were a just that…a rookie driver.
This year, that tradition has been eliminated. While Cup Series drivers Shane van Gisbergen and Riley Herbst will have clean bumpers; just like all of their fellow drivers.
NASCAR noted that the Cup Series is, “the highest level of stock car racing. Meaning that any driver who races in the series shouldn’t be called a rookie.”
However, those very same “rookie stripes” are also being eliminated in the Xfinity and Craftsman Truck Series.
But, not everyone is happy with the new ruling…NASCAR Hall of Fame drivers Dale Earnhardt Jr noted, “that was just a thing that didn’t have to go away.” He added, “it shook me up there for a second. Because it’s such a cool tradition. And, a lot of people are going, ‘well, that’s not necessary now’. The drivers they kinda know who everybody is. It’s not for the drivers, it was for us, me and you (the fans).”
Jr continued, “in like 1980, for example, when you went to the Daytona 500 there were probably 70 to 80 cars trying to qualify for the Daytona 500. Multiple, 20, 25 rookies maybe. That was when it was necessary. It’s kinda changed in terms of what purpose it served. But man, some traditions, what’s wrong with them?”