NASCAR Sprint-Cup Series
  • Peg It on GarageMonkey
CUP: Calinoff’s Capsule Comments
Kurt Busch has 24 career NASCAR Sprint Cup victories...
Mike Calinoff  |  Posted June 05, 2012   Charlotte, NC
I really didn’t want this to be my first installment on SPEED. My initial thought was to dip one toe in the water and write about something generic like the impact of social media or some tweaks I’d like to see in NASCAR.

But, Kurt Busch is the relevant topic so I’m going “all-in.”

I’ll be right up front and tell you that I’m a fan of Kurt Busch. I like him personally and professionally. And given all that has transpired with him over the years, I still like the guy.

Oh, you should know this too: In 2005 after the race in Kansas, Kurt and I got into a heated exchange on the Roush team plane. It almost got physical. The details aren’t important, but the aftermath is. Just about a year later, in a social setting, Kurt extended his hand and apologized for his actions. But since we both had a part in it, I did the same. Our relationship has remained “even” since then.

So, fast-forward to the past 18 months. Kurt has displayed some of the most deplorable actions our sport has experienced. For me, his radio tirades, post-race interviews and general persona have evolved from a novelty to a very serious issue. His actions are laced with narcissism. His attitude lacks gratitude. I don’t know where it all stems from, but I’m rooting for change.

Whether or not you’re a fan of Kurt’s or just of the sport, it’s disappointing to see a champion self-destruct. He’s won 24 races in his career – and these races are really hard to win. He’s got the gift of speed. He’s got what you can’t teach. And it’s all coming apart. Nobody should take any glory in that.

I’m convinced that NASCAR had an obligation to react the way they did. It’s their job to protect the integrity of the sport and those who contribute to it. But I’m not sure the solution lies therein.

I believe we all have the opportunity to change our ways and right our wrongs. I think Kurt has that ability. Whether or not he has the capacity remains to be seen.

Mike Calinoff is the Spotter for NASCAR Champions Matt Kenseth (NSCS), Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (NNS) and driver Nelson Piquet Jr. (NCWTS). A 20-year veteran of the sport, Calinoff owns @140BUZZ, a social media and branding company. He can be reached at mike@mikecalinoff.com and at Twitter.com/Mike Calinoff. The opinions reflected herein are solely those of Mike Calinoff and do not necessarily reflect those of SPEED.com, Roush Fenway Racing, Ford or relative race team sponsors.
mike_calinoff's avatar

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mike Calinoff

MORE BY THIS AUTHOR
Advertising | Jobs | Feedback | FAQ | Terms of Use | NEW Privacy Policy | Ad Choices | Site Map
Fox Sports | FUEL TV | FX Network | National Geographic | IGN | AskMen
The Motor Sports Authority, SPEED and associated logos are registered trademarks of Speed Channel Inc.
All Rights Reserved © Speed Channel, Inc. 2013

All external links will open in a new browser window. SPEED.com does not endorse external sites.