The NASCAR Drive for Diversity program has developed a lot of drivers and crew members since it was first instituted in 2004.
And as the initiative celebrates its 20th anniversary, it has plenty to be fired up about so far in 2024.
Three alumni alone have won races over the past two weeks. It all started with Daniel Suarez's second career Cup win at Atlanta. That was quickly followed by Rajah Caruth's breakthrough Truck Series victory at Las Vegas — and arguably the program's greatest graduate, Kyle Larson, with his 24th Cup victory also coming this past weekend.
Drive for Diversity, and its Rev Racing team in the ARCA Menards Series and the Truck Series, has really done a lot for drivers in NASCAR.
The 2024 season feels as if it's the year of D4D alumni. Four drivers alone have won races across the top three series: Nick Sanchez and Caruth in the trucks, and two Cup wins so far for Suarez and 2021 Cup champion Larson.
Following his win in the Pennzoil 400, Larson was asked by Crystal Clay from RacingRefresh.com about Drive for Diversity's 20th anniversary.
"Well, now that you mention it, yeah, I think that's really important," Larson said. "That's really cool, with Suarez winning last week. Was super proud and happy for Rajah on Friday night, not only because it's Rajah and everything that he means to the sport, but with Hendrickcars.com com on his truck, and then myself winning here today, it is pretty cool for sure."
Larson then continued explaining about how D4D was important for his career.
"The D4D program was good for my career. Kind of gave me my introduction into stock car racing and gained a lot of experience not only on the racetrack but off of it as well, with everything that they offered there at Rev Racing when I was there," Larson said. "I'm sure it's changed quite a bit since 2012, but regardless, they've produced some great drivers, and it's cool to see. Hopefully, we can add some more D4D guys onto the new championship list down the road."
The D4D program is in good hands, and its alumni are living up to their billing.
