NASCAR: Has Father Time Passed Drivers Over 40?

Rob Foldy-USA TODAY Sports

NASCAR is unique from other sports in that age doesn’t end a career the same as it does for some other athletes. In the NFL 30 begins to spell the end for running-backs and in MLB you often see production slide when a player reaches their mid-30’s. When it comes to NASCAR age is just merely a number for some, just ask Kevin Harvick who won the 2014 title at the age of 38 years old.

Interestingly enough, 38 years old isn’t even all that old. Heading into the 2015 season some of the sports biggest names will be turning 40 or are already over that mark. Is 40 too old to win a NASCAR title? The feat has been accomplished before so it’s by no means impossible. The oldest driver to ever win a NASCAR title was Bobby Allison when he won a title at the age of 45 in 1983.

The most recent driver over the age of 40 to win a title was Tony Stewart in 2011. While it has happened before and recently, it’s by no means a common trend in the sport. Since 1972 there have only been six NASCAR champions over the age of 40. When the NASCAR season begins on February 22nd there will be six drivers (over 40 or turning 40 this year) that will be looking to win a championship.

The real question is whether or not any of them will be able too.

Christopher Olmstead is the Editor of BeyondTheFlag.com on the FanSided Network. Follow us on Twitter @Beyond_The_Flag and “Like” us on Facebook.