NASCAR Stars Shine Brightly Among Autosport Awards Fan Vote Nominees

The nominations for the 38th annual Autosport Awards have been unveiled, showcasing a diverse range of motorsport talent, with NASCAR prominently featured across several key categories. Fans have the opportunity to voice their opinions by participating in The Fan Vote, an integral part of the prestigious awards ceremony. This year, the electrifying world of stock car racing has earned significant recognition, highlighting the growing global appeal and impressive achievements of its drivers and teams.

In the highly competitive "Rookie of the Year" category, NASCAR is represented by two formidable contenders: Shane van Gisbergen and Connor Zilisch. These athletes have made an indelible mark on their respective series, demonstrating exceptional skill and a remarkable capacity for success in their debut seasons.

Shane van Gisbergen, a recent addition to the NASCAR Cup Series as a teammate at Trackhouse Racing, has redefined expectations for a rookie. His 2023 campaign was nothing short of historic, as he clinched an unprecedented five victories in his rookie year, all on road or street courses. This remarkable streak not only set a new benchmark for first-year drivers but also propelled him into the NASCAR Playoffs, a testament to his rapid adaptation and raw talent. Van Gisbergen’s performance culminated in a 12th-place finish in the championship standings, outpaced only by Denny Hamlin in terms of race wins. Beyond his road-course prowess, the New Zealand native showcased significant improvement on oval tracks, securing his first top-ten finish late in the season, indicating a well-rounded development that bodes well for his future in NASCAR.

Equally impressive is Connor Zilisch, a rising star in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, competing for JR Motorsports. Zilisch dominated the 2023 season, amassing an astounding ten wins. His performance was characterized by a sensational summer run, where he secured victories in seven out of eight races he entered. This exceptional consistency propelled him to the Championship 4, where he narrowly missed out on the series title in a nail-biting, one-race finale. Zilisch’s statistical dominance is undeniable, leading the entire Xfinity Series in wins, top-five finishes, top-ten finishes, pole positions, and average finishing position. His achievements underscore a meteoric rise in the sport, marking him as a significant talent to watch.

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The "Team of the Year" category sees NASCAR represented by Hendrick Motorsports, a titan of the sport that secured its 15th championship in the last 31 seasons. This victory ended a three-year dominance by Team Penske, solidifying Hendrick Motorsports’ enduring legacy. The team’s championship success was a collective effort, with two of their four drivers reaching the Championship 4, and all four drivers making it into the playoffs. Hendrick Motorsports achieved eight wins across the season, including the sport’s most prestigious event, the Daytona 500, won for the second consecutive year by William Byron. This remarkable season underscores the team’s consistent excellence and strategic prowess in the highly competitive NASCAR Cup Series.

NASCAR’s impact extends to the "Moment of the Year" category, presented by the Bahrain International Circuit. The thrilling overtime finish of the NASCAR Cup Series championship race at Phoenix Raceway has been recognized for its dramatic conclusion. In a pivotal moment, crew chief Cliff Daniels of the No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports team made a strategic call during a late-race caution, opting for a two-tire change on the right side for the second consecutive pit stop. This bold decision, aimed at gaining track position, proved instrumental. Kyle Larson, behind the wheel, capitalized on the restart, gaining crucial ground and ultimately securing the championship. The victory was particularly remarkable as Larson clinched the title without leading a single lap in the championship showdown, highlighting a strategic masterclass under immense pressure.

In the "Creator of the Year" category, NASCAR’s digital presence is championed by YouTuber Eric Estepp. Estepp has garnered a significant following, with his commentary channel on NASCAR exceeding 250,000 subscribers and consistently attracting tens of thousands of views per video. His journey began approximately 14 years ago with a unique diecast stop-motion channel. Over time, he has evolved into a prominent voice within the NASCAR community, offering a fresh and engaging perspective on the sport. His content has become an essential resource for many fans seeking to connect with top-level stock car racing, establishing him as a key figure in the sport’s digital landscape.

The nomination of these NASCAR figures and teams across various Autosport Awards categories underscores the sport’s expanding global reach and the caliber of talent it attracts. The Fan Vote provides a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to directly influence the recognition of these outstanding achievements, celebrating the drama, skill, and passion that define NASCAR. As the anticipation builds for the Autosport Awards ceremony, the presence of NASCAR nominees serves as a powerful testament to the sport’s enduring appeal and its significant contributions to the world of motorsport.