For now, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Danica Patrick doesn’t have to worry about one of the female counterparts from IndyCar attempt to make their try at stock car racing.
England’s Pippa Mann told Forbes.com earlier this week that despite the popularity she brings to the series and is expected to be the lone female competitor in this year’s 100th running of the Indianapolis 500, she has no interest in making the leap to NASCAR and following Patrick’s path.
“I don’t really have an interest in going to NASCAR,” Mann said. “It’s like an NFL player trying to go play championship rugby. The ball are similar, but the skill set is really not. The other thing is I grew up in the U.K. (United Kingdom) watching open-wheel cars, was passionate about them.”
As Mann progressed through her open-wheel career, she gained her notoriety in 2010 competing in the Indy Light Series (NASCAR’s XFINITY Series comparison). Driving for Sam Schmidt Motorsports, she became the first female pole sitter for a race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway by heading the grid for the Indy Lights Freedom 100. Later that year she won her first race at Kentucky Speedway.
Mann’s lack of interest to compete in NASCAR is simple. At least for her. But, if there’s a bright side, she does want to participate in a series that does has ties to NASCAR.
“I didn’t grow up watching NASCAR,” she added. “I think the drivers are really talented at what they do – it’s just not for me. Now sports cars, the chance to go round for the Daytona 24 (Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona), Sebring 12 or LeMans – that I would love to do!”
The France family, which owns NASCAR also controls The International Motor Sports Association (IMSA). IMSA® governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, the premier U.S. sport car series which hosts the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona, 12 Hours of Sebring and LeMans.
The 32-year-old has 13 IndyCar starts to her credit with a best finish of 13th twice last season at Auto Club (Calif.) Speedway and Pocono (Pa.) Raceway, both of which are tracks NASCAR competes on.
Follow Chris Knight on Twitter @Knighter01.
