NASCAR’s failed diversity program
In 2004, NASCAR launched its Drive for Diversity program in an effort to develop minorities and women in the sport. While a few program graduates have enjoyed some success, in its nine years of existence, Drive for Diversity has yet to have any program driver participate in a Sprint Cup race. Steve Delsohn examines NASCAR’s efforts to diversify, as well as some of the obstacles minority drivers face in trying to break into the upper echelons of auto racing.
“Ultimately, I think it was because I was too white and didn’t fit their stereotype of what a Puerto Rican should look like." — Michael Rodriguez, aspiring stock-car driver on being rejected from NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity program
“The program’s ineffective because after a decade they haven’t produced hardly any drivers with any sustainability that can move up the ranks to the cup level." — Lenny Miller, first African-American team owner in NASCAR history to win a track championship, on NASCAR’s diversity program effort.