What Is 2017 NASCAR Whelen Euro Series season

Overview

The 2017 NASCAR Whelen Euro Series season marked the ninth year of Europe’s premier stock car racing series, sanctioned by NASCAR and promoted by Team FJ. The season featured a competitive 12-race schedule across six European circuits, highlighting the growth of American-style racing in Europe.

Divided into two driver classifications—Elite 1 and Elite 2—the series attracted international talent from across the continent and beyond. The championship emphasized close competition, with consistent performances and strategic racing determining final standings.

• 12 races were held across 6 circuits in France, Italy, Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands, beginning on April 8 at Valencia.
• Israeli driver Alon Day claimed his first Elite 1 championship with 3 wins, 7 podiums, and a total of 787 points.
• Lucas Lasserre from France won the Elite 2 title, securing 4 victories and finishing with 782 points.
• The series used Generation 6 NASCAR-spec cars, adapted for European circuits with right-hand drive configurations.
• Each race weekend featured two 150-km races, with qualifying determining grid positions via a single-car time trial format.

How It Works

The NASCAR Whelen Euro Series operates under a unique format blending American stock car traditions with European motorsport logistics. Drivers compete in two classes based on experience and career stage, with points accumulated across the season.

• Elite 1 Class: The top-tier division features professional drivers and series champions. Competitors must hold an FIA Silver or higher license and aim for the overall championship.
• Elite 2 Class: Designed for developing talent, this division includes drivers with FIA Bronze or national licenses, offering a pathway to Elite 1.
• Race Format: Each event includes two 150-km races with separate qualifying sessions. The second race grid is inverted for the top 10 from Race 1.
• Points System: Drivers earn points based on finishing position, with 40 for 1st, 35 for 2nd, down to 1 for 20th, plus bonuses for pole and most laps led.
• Car Specifications: The series uses 358-cubic-inch V8 engines producing ~450 horsepower, with steel tube-frame chassis and NASCAR-approved bodywork.
• Championship Tiebreaker: In case of a points tie, the driver with more wins is ranked higher, followed by more podiums and then best single finish.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how the 2017 Elite 1 and Elite 2 championships compared across key metrics:

The table highlights that while Alon Day had fewer wins, his consistency in podium finishes secured the Elite 1 title. Lasserre’s four victories in Elite 2 underscored his dominance in a competitive developmental class. Both championships were decided by narrow margins, reflecting the series’ high level of parity.

Why It Matters

The 2017 season was pivotal in establishing the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series as a legitimate motorsport platform in Europe, bridging American racing culture with European circuits and fans. Its structure supports driver development and international exposure.

• The series helped expand NASCAR’s global footprint, attracting sponsors and broadcasters interested in transatlantic motorsport.
• Alon Day’s championship made him the first Israeli to win a NASCAR-sanctioned title, marking a milestone in diversity.
• European circuits like Brands Hatch and Zolder gained renewed attention through live broadcasts and international media coverage.
• Young drivers used Elite 2 as a stepping stone to higher series, including NASCAR’s U.S.-based regional leagues.
• The season’s close competition boosted fan engagement, with attendance rising by 12% compared to 2016.
• Technical collaboration with Team FJ and NASCAR engineers ensured high safety and performance standards across all events.

Overall, the 2017 season demonstrated the viability of stock car racing in Europe and laid groundwork for future expansion, including the addition of new tracks and increased manufacturer involvement.