Chris Harris

More than 100 years of Black motorsports history connects generations of people who refused to wait for opportunity. From the Colored Speedway Association and Charlie Wiggins to Leonard W. Miller, BARA, AAAA, Foxxtecca and Dystany Spurlock, this is a story about the people who created pathways, broke barriers and made sure the next generation had something to build on.

John Cohen’s sixteen-year run as a NASCAR Cup Series owner shows rare resilience and real grit. As a majority Black owner, he keeps New York Racing Team alive without major sponsors, all while bringing HBCU pride and hip hop culture into a sport where representation is almost nonexistent. His presence proves our culture, talent, and leadership belong in every corner of motorsports.

American motorsports can’t rely on TV alone anymore. Fans follow stars, not sanctioning bodies, and they’re finding them on TikTok, IG, and YouTube. Other sports embrace digital storytelling, but motorsports risks being left behind. To grow, the industry must balance broadcast with social media and let its athletes shine.