Drivers voice feelings to NASCAR in safety meeting

CONCORD, N.C. — Cup drivers voiced their feelings to NASCAR about the sanctioning body’s safety efforts in a meeting that some competitors called productive, but one likened to the “airing of grievances” from the “Seinfeld” show.

Saturday morning’s meeting at Charlotte Motor Speedway lasted 75 minutes. A NASCAR spokesperson said officials were open to another meeting since they couldn’t complete their presentation because drivers had so many questions and comments. Multiple drivers said that they hope they meet with officials again in the near future.

Saturday’s meeting took place a day before three full-time drivers will miss the same Cup race because of crash-related injuries. This is believed to be the first time in at least 20 years that has happened. 

Kurt Busch will miss his 12th consecutive race because of concussion-like symptoms. Alex Bowman will miss his second race in a row for the same issue. Cody Ware is skipping this race after suffering an ankle fracture two weeks ago in a crash at Texas.

NASCAR President Steve Phelps spoke at the beginning of the meeting and told competitors that officials care about driver safety. John Patalak, managing director of safety engineering for NASCAR, led much of the session. John Probst, NASCAR senior vice president of Racing Innovation, also spoke. NASCAR Chairman and CEO Jim France attended the meeting but did not speak.

Kevin Harvick, who has been one of the most outspoken drivers about NASCAR’s safety efforts this season, said he wants to see more.

“Actions are a lot louder than words,” Harvick told NBC Sports and The Associated Press. “That’s what we need to see.”

Harvick also said that Saturday’s meeting was “a good step in communication.”

Asked if he felt safe in this