The NASCAR of the past and the NASCAR of now has undergone many changes. Once upon a time, drivers were often seen sporting a more “rugged” look. They were often seen smoking or wearing open-face helmets as they went about the dangerous race. But now, the racer’s image and safety are paramount, and hence many changes have been made. But recently, at Bowman Gray Stadium, we got a flashback of the past that even left Dale Earnhardt Jr reminiscing about the old days!

Dale Earnhardt Jr nods to Zach Staley

Dale Earnhardt Jr was quick to give a shout-out to Zach Staley after the race in Bowman Gray Stadium. He posted on X a video of Staley stating, “This guy got out in victory lane looking like ZZTop and smoking a Marlboro. Open face helmet and all.”

Zach Staley truly radiates the looks and vibe of the racers of the past. He is even called a “throwback driver” by his fans! He must have stirred up the same emotions in Jr which made him reminisce about the good old days. 

Under Junior’s Twitter post, fans are asking for an interview with Staley. This goes on to show the timeless appeal of nostalgia. One fan even said, “Get him a cup ride, NASCAR desperately needs some grizzled old skool types with no f**k to give.”

A never-before-seen spectacle at the Bowman Gray Stadium

In the Bowman Gray stadium, something happened that was never seen before for some. Staley was seen hyping up the crowd. He had his hand out the window, with his big old beard and open-faced helmet, chomping on a cigarette. While many racers do opt for nicotine for added focus, no one does it openly like him. 

Staley’s rise to the racing scene goes beyond just the track. His aesthetics, the humble man he is behind the wheel, is winning over the people. The entire stadium had their phone flashlight lit up in support, showing his growing fanbase. This paints a picture of a driver destined for greatness.

He managed to clinch his second career victory at the stadium. We can only hope this win is just the beginning of something more remarkable for him.

What do you think? Will the “throwback driver” be able to excel like the top guns? Let us know in the comments.