Breaking news: An open letter from Scott Bloomquist to Richard Petty and the entire NASCAR community which will leave you speechless…

Today, I write this letter not just as a competitor or a fan, but as someone who deeply respects the roots, traditions, and the spirit that make racing a universal language of passion and perseverance. I have spent my life chasing speed, battling adversity, and pushing the boundaries of dirt late model racing — a sport that, in many ways, shares the same heart and soul as NASCAR, even if the paths are different.

But as I reflect on the history of our sport, I feel compelled to address some truths that have been weighing on my mind. These words come from a place of respect and a desire to see our racing community thrive, evolve, and honor the legacy of those who came before us.

First and foremost, I want to acknowledge the significance of NASCAR’s rich history, embodied so profoundly by legends like yourself, Richard. Your achievements, your dedication, and your pioneering spirit have built a foundation upon which countless racers, including myself, have been inspired. The stories of your career, your championships, and your influence are woven into the fabric of racing history. For that, I am grateful.

However, I also believe that the sport we love must continually evolve, not just in technology and sponsorships, but in spirit and inclusivity. Over the years, I have seen our sport become increasingly commercialized and segmented, sometimes losing sight of what made racing truly special — the purity of competition, the local heroes, and the grassroots passion that ignited the flame in many of us.

I want to challenge the NASCAR community, including its leadership and fans, to remember and honor the spirit of the underdog — the racer who comes from humble beginnings, who races not for fame or fortune but for the love of the sport. Dirt racing, like the racing I have dedicated my life to, is rooted in that same underdog mentality, often overlooked but fiercely passionate and resilient.

To Richard and the entire NASCAR family, I ask: Are we doing enough to support the grassroots racers, the local tracks, and the young talent who dream of making it to the big stage? Are we preserving the essence of racing as a proving ground for grit, skill, and determination? Or are we drifting further into a world dominated by corporate interests and a limited pool of big-name drivers?

Additionally, I want to speak directly about the importance of respect and camaraderie on and off the track. Racing is not just about winning but about honoring the sport, respecting your competitors, and carrying forward the legacy with dignity. We’ve all seen moments of tension and rivalry, but at the end of the day, we are all part of a larger family that shares a common love for speed and competition.

I also want to emphasize that diversity and inclusion are vital for the future of racing. The sport must open its arms wider, welcoming new voices, perspectives, and talent. Whether it’s a dirt track racer from a small town or a young driver from an underserved community, everyone deserves a chance to chase their dreams without barriers.

Lastly, I want to thank the NASCAR community for the countless memories, the thrill of competition, and the camaraderie that binds us. I am proud to have competed in this sport, and I will always carry the lessons learned — resilience, humility, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

To Richard Petty, a true legend whose legacy will inspire generations to come, I say this: Let us continue to honor the history of our sport while embracing the changes necessary to keep it vibrant and relevant. Let’s nurture the next generation of racers, support the grassroots, and remember that at its core, racing is about passion, perseverance, and community.

In closing, I leave you with this: the sport we love is bigger than any individual, and it’s our collective responsibility to ensure it remains a beacon of hope, excitement, and inspiration for all who dream of racing.