This NASCAR offseason has been busy for those in the sport. Some, of course, are enjoying their break, vacationing with their families. Some are racing on dirt tracks across the country, while the likes of Brad Keselowski were busy getting into dangerous skiing accidents. Then there are the changes sweeping across the Drivers’ Advisory Council.
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The organization, established in 2022, is undergoing a significant transformation of its leadership structure. The effort is toward further strengthening the bridge between NASCAR and its drivers.
Chip Wile, longtime NASCAR executive and former track president of the Daytona International Speedway, will replace Jeff Burton as the executive director of the council. Burton, however, will remain in the fold in an advisory role.
When it was established, the council was just a formal platform for drivers to address racing and safety concerns. But now with this revamp, its scope has increased. It is expected to begin new initiatives that will encourage open communication between the sanctioning body and the drivers.
This is particularly needed in the aftermath of recent tumultuous happenings, such as the antitrust lawsuit involving charter holders. During the proceedings, the council served a crucial role in pushing for transparency and cooperation. On the inside, the council works closely with the Race Team Alliance and NASCAR’s internal competition team.
In what matters will the council be involved?
NASCAR has several key decisions to make soon. One of them is regarding the playoff format change. It is possible that the council’s opinion on this matter has already been heard or will be heard soon before a formal announcement is made. Its role in the trial further heightens the need for it to have a seat at the table.
The words of Denny Hamlin about the purpose of the council ring loud at this point: “The new council will deliver a unified, collective voice from the drivers to help address any challenges we face and help accomplish the common goals the industry shares.”
The current council includes a list of former and active drivers, along with key members of the industry. William Byron, Chase Briscoe, Joey Logano, Kyle Petty, and the former CEO of Growth Energy, Tom Buis, are all on this list. Their objective is to improve safety protocols, make sure driver voices are heard in the big offices, and handle day-to-day operations.
