Chase Elliott, Denny Hamlin, and Ryan Blaney—what do these names stir in the minds of their fans? Is it solely their slick driving finesse that captivates the masses? Not by a long shot! Indeed, their sharp looks and magnetic charm play a part in their stardom. But if you leaf through the pages of People’s Magazine, it might seem that NASCAR drivers are being celebrated purely and only for their mastery of stock car acrobatics.

A stir was caused recently when the magazine unfurled its latest issue, showcasing the “21 Sexiest Men in Sports”—a list that astonishingly left out NASCAR’s finest. While Formula 1’s Lewis Hamilton snagged a spot, comfortably racing into the penultimate position, the exclusion of NASCAR’s heartthrobs was palpable. Could it be that the world of high-octane racing has more to show than just speed and agility? The fans certainly think so.

The charm of NASCAR drivers overlooked by People’s Magazine

NASCAR, a sport celebrated for its riveting individualism rather than team dynamics, often hinges on the magnetic appeal of its drivers. The departure of a driver from a team, be it for new ventures or retirement, can send shockwaves through the fanbase, resulting in a significant dip in loyalty and viewership. Typically, investments are poured into the drivers and their sleek machines more than the team itself, all thanks to the star power these racers wield. So, it is pretty apparent how much of a popularity NASCAR drivers hold. That would guarantee some recognition, right? Well, things couldn’t be farther away from that. 

In a surprising twist, none of NASCAR’s charmers found their way onto People magazine’s coveted roundup of the ’21 Sexiest Men in Sports.’ This list, which spanned across various athletic disciplines from the NBA to American soccer and even recognized Formula 1’s dashing Lewis Hamilton, overlooked NASCAR entirely. Fans are left pondering: How could icons like Jamie McMurray and Kasey Kahne not make the cut?

This omission has stirred up a storm among global fans who took their bewilderment to Reddit, voicing their confusion and discontent. The commentary didn’t just stop at surprise; some astute fans speculated on the reasons behind this snub. Disgruntled, they are calling out both People Magazine and NASCAR, wondering if there’s more beneath the surface of this exclusion.

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Fans outcry over NASCAR’s absence from People Magazine’s list

The exclusion of NASCAR drivers from People Magazine’s top 21 sexiest sportsmen list may have been trivial for the racers, but it certainly struck a nerve with their ardent fanbase. They want their cherished speedsters recognized universally, not just on the track. One fan, brimming with sarcasm, declared that Mike Harmon was unfairly overlooked, exclaiming, “Mike Harmon robbed.” Another, perplexed, queried the absence of Sheldon Creed with a simple, “no Sheldon Creed?”

The conversation then shifted nostalgically to past favorites, with a fan’s heart-emoji-laden plea: “Bring back Kasey Kahne 😍,” only to be met with the sobering reminder, “Well yeah Johnson and Kahne retired.”  The debate continued with surprise over Chase Elliott and Austin Dillon being sidelined, with a quip, “Surprised there’s no Chase or Austin Dillon… but then again, both have been used to failing to make the top 20 this year.”

As names of other NASCAR heroes were tossed into the ring, one fan humorously suggested the lack of NASCAR presence on the list was due to insufficient financial persuasion: “NASCAR didn’t pay People magazine enough.” Beyond the jest, a more critical view emerged about NASCAR’s marketing finesse, or the perceived lack thereof: “Nascar doesn’t really market their drivers as such. Ross Chastain with a jockey sponsorship, yet no print adds. Dude is shredded, yet nothing. There are others, show some of the dirt guys scars.”

So, we turn to you, the fans: Who graces your list of all-time sexiest NASCAR drivers? We’re all ears (and eyes) in the comments section below. Share your picks, and let the debate begin!

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