The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is a premier American auto racing organization, founded in 1948 by Bill France Sr., that has grown into one of the world's top motorsports bodies and a major spectator sport. Its unique origins trace back to the Prohibition era, where "moonshine runners" honed their driving skills to evade authorities, eventually competing in thrilling, unregulated races across the American South.
Today, NASCAR annually sanctions over 1,500 races at more than 100 tracks across 48 US states, Canada, Mexico, and other international locations, featuring a multi-tiered "ladder" system with the prestigious Cup Series at the pinnacle. While primarily known for high-speed action on diverse oval tracks—including superspeedways and short tracks—races also occur on road courses and street circuits, with Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota fiercely competing. Legendary drivers like Richard Petty hold the record with 200 Cup Series wins, while Petty, Dale Earnhardt, and Jimmie Johnson share the record for most championships, each securing seven titles.