“If you don’t know anything about racing, just keep your opinion to yourself because you shouldn’t even have an opinion if you don’t know anything about a sport,” said Kevin Harvick in response to Stephen A. Smith‘s claim that NASCAR drivers aren’t athletes.
The exchange unfolded on social media after Smith, during a discussion on the athleticism of various sports, dismissed the idea that driving a racecar qualifies as an athletic feat. Harvick, a seasoned driver with 60 wins in the NASCAR Cup Series, found the assertion laughable and backed it up with hard data.
Harvick shared that he burned a staggering 3,200 calories during a race, according to data from his Polar watch. Even when factoring in caution periods—where the cars slow down—he still burned 2,400 calories. This calorie expenditure is comparable to what elite marathon runners experience.
Key points from Harvick’s argument:
- Driving at high speeds for hours demands intense physical endurance.
- NASCAR drivers often lose several pounds due to dehydration during races.
- Elite drivers train rigorously, combining strength and cardiovascular workouts.
Harvick emphasized that “any elite driver, they are an elite athlete.” His remarks reflect a broader sentiment in the racing community that driving requires more than just skill—it demands physical conditioning and mental acuity.
The debate over athleticism isn’t new; even Richard Petty, a legend in NASCAR, once remarked on the physical toll of racing. Critics like Smith may not grasp the full scope of what it means to be behind the wheel at 200 mph.
This back-and-forth highlights an ongoing challenge for NASCAR: changing perceptions about its athletes. As discussions continue, Harvick’s data-driven rebuttal serves as a reminder of the rigorous demands placed on racecar drivers.
As this conversation evolves, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely—especially with more races approaching this season.