From Bill Sr. to Jim: Can the France Family Still Drive NASCAR’s Future? NASCAR's ownership structure makes the sport unique, but it could also prove to be detrimental on the long run in its growth. S

Few sports in America are as closely tied to one family as NASCAR. While the likes of the NFL, MLB, and the NBA are governed by boards, commissioners, and owners who share the power, stock car racing’s three national series have always been firmly in control of the France family. But even though the industry is expanding globally and becoming more transparent, NASCAR’s family-run model continues to raise eyebrows

It all started with Bill France Sr., when he wanted to not only legitimize the competition but also build a lasting business along the way. Fair to say that he succeeded.

The France family didn’t just build a sanctioning body, but created an enterprise that controlled the rules, events, and facilities.

Bill Sr. to Bill Jr. to Brian, and now Jim France

NASCAR entered a new era