In a symbolic week for NASCAR, the sanctioning body announced Wednesday it is banning the display of the Confederate flag at all race track and properties effectively immediately.
In a statement, NASCAR said, “The presence of the confederate flag at NASCAR events runs contrary to our commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all fans, our competitors and our industry.
“Bringing people together around a love for racing and the community that it creates is what makes our fans and sport special. The display of the confederate flag will be prohibited from all NASCAR events and properties.”
The move comes just two days after its full-time African American driver Darrell Wallace Jr. appeared on CNN’s Don Lemon discussing a variety of topics, including his belief that it was time NASCAR banned the Confederate flag from being displayed at tracks.
In 2015, NASCAR first asked fans to stop displaying the Confederate flag at its races, releasing a statement endorsed by tracks.
Prior to last Sunday’s Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 at Atlanta (Ga.) Motor Speedway, NASCAR president Steve Phelps addressed the competitors, teams and attendees as well as the watching nation pledging that the sport is extremely sensitive to the country’s current social unrest and committed to improving race relations.
Phelps then issued a statement that included:
“Our country is in pain and people are justifiably angry, demanding to be heard. The black community and all people of color have suffered in our country and it has taken far too long for us to hear their demands for change.
“Our sport must do better. Our country must do better.”
Following his statement, a 30-second moment of silence was recognized before pace laps continued.
NASCAR has also removed guidelines that team members must stand for the national anthem, paving the way for peaceful protests during pre-race ceremonies.
The revised guideline was implemented prior to the NASCAR Cup Series event at Atlanta.
Wednesday night’s Cup Series race at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway will also feature a “Black Lives Matter” car driven by Wallace of Richard Petty Motorsports.
Follow Chris Knight on Twitter @Knighter01.
