R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. helped push NASCAR out of the South and into the big time. Without Winston and its money and promotion and a close relationship that goes back 32 years, Winston Cup racing might never have left home to make the major leagues.
So there is no question tobacco helped NASCAR get where it is.
There also is no question that tobacco, like a lapped car that won’t get out of the way, will stop the sport from getting where it wants to go.
Racing has outgrown tobacco, and NASCAR should be thrilled if RJR walks away.
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