NASCAR Mailbag - Should NASCAR consider shrinking the schedule?

Why does Dale not wear his wedding ring? - From Nancy Fox

He does. Dale has an admitted aversion to jewelry, but he now has started wearing Qalo rings, popular silicone rings worn by professional athletes, soldiers, travelers and those with an active lifestyle.

Dale's wife, Amy, actually shared his collection on Twitter:

Dale Jr.'s reply via text, "Hate jewelry. Simple as that." – Jim Utter & Lee Spencer

Do you think that in an effort to cut costs and save money, should NASCAR take a page from Formula 1 and have a reduced schedule? I know people love they get to watch so many races, as I feel I can never get enough motorsports in on my weekends. But, with people losing interest, could this be something that would draw more attention, since you don't get to see as much, you won't want to miss the chances you get. Additionally, it would raise the intensity with drivers, since you have less opportunities for wins and to make up for bad days. We all know NASCAR wants its drama. I want to see the sport grow, but sometimes you have to cut back in order to expand – From Randy

I think you hit all the high points as to why cutting back the schedule would be a good thing. There of course would be initial disappointment but I think if the focus was put first on tracks that currently host two races and have those tracks undertake a cost-benefit analysis for two races, that would be a good starting point. I believe a shorter, more condensed schedule would be a good thing long-term for the sport. I have no doubt, however, there would be short-term pain by some fans and tracks that lost a Cup race date. – Jim Utter

What's next for Dale Jr.?  He will make a great dad. - From Diana

Dale Jr. remains co-owner of JR Motorsports and he will be joining the NBC broadcast booth during its half of the NASCAR season next year. Along the way, it's doubtful he will be far away from the track. He insists he will continue a relationship with Hendrick Motorsports' No. 88 team and he will be the grand marshal for the 2018 Daytona 500. As you pointed out, he will also soon become a father for the first time. I think NASCAR fans will still see plenty of him - just in different roles. – Jim Utter

My question is should NASCAR expand its influence into Asia? If so, how? Setting up a regional series there? - From Faris

NASCAR is always looking for new opportunities. It has found great success in its touring series in Mexico, Canada and Europe. Before the creation of a touring series in Asia, however, I think NASCAR would try an exhibition race of some kind first, similar to its trips to Japan in 1996 and 1997. Test the market to see if fans there like the product and also see if racers in the market are interested in participating in this form of motorsports. You never know where you may find a successful niche. Start small but think big. – Jim Utter