In 2004, NASCAR started a driver diversity program. The focus was on attracting new drivers and fans from differing backgrounds. Has the program been a success in its 20 complete seasons?

The answer depends on your definition of success. Only three graduate drivers have made it to the Cup series. Two more have a chance to make it. That number is low, but the quality of those graduates is immense. The three graduates are Kyle Larson, Bubba Wallace, and Daniel Suarez.

Larson is a cup champion and is considered one of the best in the world. Many forget he was part of this program. 

Wallace is a multi-time winner and a popular driver. He’s won in Trucks and Xfinity as well. He was in the running for an Xfinity championship when the team he drove for folded. 

Suarez helped spearhead Trackhouse, the reason NASCAR debuted in Mexico this season, and is an Xfinity Champion. 

When you factor in the quality of the driver, the program has been a success. NASCAR may not have achieved the quantity it was after, but it succeeded in quality. 

Image Credit: Julian Wayne/ Seriously Fast Media