In the high-octane world of NASCAR, where legends like Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson dominate the history books, one rising star is charting his own course—and it’s not the path you’d expect. Noah Gragson isn’t looking to emulate the seven-time or four-time Cup champions; instead, he’s setting his sights on becoming the next Dale Earnhardt Jr. But here’s where it gets intriguing: Gragson isn’t just inspired by Earnhardt Jr.’s driving skills—he’s captivated by the way Junior transcended the sport, becoming a cultural icon, a business mogul, and a fan favorite. And this is the part most people miss: Gragson’s ambition isn’t solely about winning races; it’s about building a legacy that extends far beyond the track.
Gragson openly admires Earnhardt Jr.’s ability to connect with fans, sell merchandise, and leave an indelible mark on NASCAR. ‘Dale Earnhardt Jr. is an incredible driver, but what sets him apart is how he became a household name,’ Gragson explained in a recent interview (https://youtu.be/32yBVvG-_lY?si=4NDVyMKif4Xr5EC8). ‘I want to be the guy who sells the most t-shirts, who has the biggest fan base. That’s what Dale Jr. did, and that’s what I aspire to.’ It’s a bold statement, especially when you consider that Earnhardt Jr. was named NASCAR’s Most Popular Driver for 15 consecutive years (2003-2017)—a record that remains unmatched.
But Gragson’s role models don’t stop at Earnhardt Jr. He also draws inspiration from Danica Patrick, whose NASCAR career paved the way for her success as a podcast host, wine entrepreneur, and long-standing brand ambassador. ‘Danica stayed relevant long after her racing days, and that’s something I admire,’ Gragson noted. ‘If you can build a massive fan base, you attract partners, sponsorships, and opportunities that go beyond the track.’
Here’s the controversial part: While Gragson dreams of overtaking Chase Elliott—the current Most Popular Driver—as the fan favorite, he’s still chasing his first Cup Series win. Is it possible to become the most popular driver without consistently winning races? Gragson seems to think so, but it’s a question that divides fans and pundits alike. ‘I may not be the best driver, but I want to be a fan favorite,’ he admitted. ‘That’s where the real impact lies.’
Gragson’s journey is far from over. With 108 Cup starts under his belt and a brash, fan-friendly attitude, he’s slowly building his brand. But will he ever dethrone Elliott as the Most Popular Driver? Only time will tell. And this is where we want to hear from you: Do you think Gragson can achieve his dream without racking up wins? Or is popularity in NASCAR inherently tied to on-track success? Let us know in the comments—this debate is just getting started.
