UPDATE: In an effort to create a more “inclusive environment” for NASCAR fans, the organization has announced its decision to ban Confederate flags from its racetracks.
“The presence of the Confederate flag at NASCAR events runs contrary to our commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all fans, our competitors and our industry. Bringing people together around a love for racing and the community that it creates is what makes our fans and sport special. The display of the Confederate flag will be prohibited from all NASCAR events and properties,” the statement read.
Just two days ago, Bubba Wallace, the first full-time Black driver on NASCAR’s top circuit in more than four decades, publicly encouraged NASCAR to remove the flags.
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Bubba Wallace is calling “to get rid of all Confederate flags” at the racetracks.
During a recent CNN interview with Don Lemon, the 26-year-old NASCAR driver said this should be a “next step.”
“No one should feel uncomfortable when they come to a NASCAR race. So, it starts with Confederate flags,” Wallace said on Monday. “Get them out of here. They have no place for them.”