The Facts
There have been eight races so far in 2007. Of those only one (Texas) had a final run to the checkers of more than 25 laps. All of the rest had a caution flag late in the race that guaranteed NASCAR a close finish.
Think back even beyond 2007. How many times has a leader's huge lead been instantly erased for a mysterious "debris" caution? Fox Sports even makes it a point now to tell us that if they can find the debris they will show us. They recognize that sometimes NASCAR throws cautions for reasons that even the TV crew can't figure out.
What Does "Staged" Mean?
Tony Stewart said that NASCAR must think that since wrestling is popular and it is mostly staged that it'll work well in racing too. He went on to say "I don't know that they have run a fair race all year."
I agree completely. These mystery cautions have got to stop. I love a thrilling finish as much as anyone but NASCAR must not interfere with the natural progression of a race.
Let me say though that I do not believe that NASCAR is playing favorites. They don't care if Jeff Gordon or Tony Stewart or anyone else wins.
NASCAR does care about providing good races with exciting finishes. A blowout is bad for ratings while exciting finishes keep the fans tuning in which in turn keeps the sponsor dollars flowing.
