NASCAR has been recognized by Sports Business Journal as its Sports League of the Year as part of the publication’s 2021 Sports Business Awards. This is the first year the stock-car racing sanctioning body has won the award.
“We’re honored to be named 2021 Sports League of the Year and thank Sports Business Journal for this incredible recognition,” NASCAR President Steve Phelps said. “This award is a testament to the collective resolve and creativity of our industry as we worked through some extraordinary circumstances in 2020 and in the process led the way for live sports in our country.”
After sports went on a hiatus because of the COVID-19 pandemic, NASCAR was the first major US sport to return to action. The sanctioning body, then, upheld its commitment to completing a full season and, with mid-week races and doubleheader weekends, became the first major US sport to complete an unabbreviated season and on time. NASCAR also was the first major US sport to welcome back a live audience.
Upon its return to racing NASCAR strengthened its commitment to diversity and social equality. Moves included a ban of the Confederate flag at its events and venues.
Other finalists for this year’s award included the NBA, NFL, NHL, PGA Tour, UFC and the WNBA.
