The NASCAR Most Popular Driver stands as one of the sport’s most cherished honors, determined solely by fan votes since its inception. From NASCAR legends to modern-day superstars, this award reflects the heart and soul of racing fandom. Here’s a complete year-by-year breakdown of every winner, showcasing the drivers who captured the hearts of NASCAR fans across generations.
The Pioneer Era (1953-1969)
1953-1954: Lee Petty
Lee Petty, patriarch of the legendary Petty racing dynasty, won the inaugural awards when NASCAR’s Most Popular Driver covered all series, not just Cup. His three consecutive wins established the Petty family legacy.
1955: Tim Flock
Racing icon Tim Flock won during NASCAR’s early golden era, representing the sport’s pioneering days with skill and charm.
1956: Curtis Turner
The Virginia dirt-track ace claimed his second Most Popular Driver title, following his first in 1949 when a NASCAR panel made the selection.
1957: Fireball Roberts
Known for his aggressive driving style and magnetic personality, Roberts became a fan favorite during NASCAR’s formative years.
1958: Glen Wood
The Wood Brothers Racing founder won the award, cementing his place in NASCAR history both as a driver and team owner.
1959: Jack Smith
Smith’s consistent performance and approachable demeanor earned him the honor during this competitive era.
1960: Rex White
The 1960 NASCAR champion also captured fans’ hearts with his underdog story and relentless racing spirit.
1961: Joe Weatherly
Weatherly’s charismatic personality and fearless driving made him a crowd favorite before his tragic 1964 death.
1962: Richard Petty
“The King” won his first of nine Most Popular Driver awards, beginning a legacy that would span nearly two decades.
1963: Fred Lorenzen
Nicknamed “The Golden Boy” for his movie-star looks, Lorenzen became the first driver to win over $100,000 in a single season.
1964: Richard Petty
The King claimed his second award during his championship-winning season.
1965: Fred Lorenzen
Lorenzen’s second win came after his rain-shortened Daytona 500 victory, solidifying his star power.
1966: Darel Dieringer
Dieringer’s brief moment in the spotlight showcased NASCAR’s depth of talent during the 1960s.
1967: Cale Yarborough
The future Hall of Famer won his only Most Popular Driver award early in his legendary career.
1968-1969: Richard Petty and Bobby Isaac
Petty reclaimed the award in 1968 before Isaac broke through in 1969, representing NASCAR’s competitive balance.
The Allison-Petty Era (1970-1983)
1970: Richard Petty
The King continued his dominance with fans, winning his fourth award.
1971-1973: Bobby Allison
The Alabama Gang leader won three consecutive awards, beginning his record seven total wins.
1974-1978: Richard Petty
Petty’s remarkable five-year streak cemented his status as NASCAR’s most beloved driver, earning him nine career awards.
1979-1980: David Pearson
The “Silver Fox” won back-to-back awards during the twilight of his Hall of Fame career.
1981-1983: Bobby Allison
Allison’s second streak included four consecutive wins, culminating with his 1983 championship season.
The Bill Elliott Dynasty (1984-2002)
1984-1988: Bill Elliott
“Awesome Bill from Dawsonville” began his record 16-award run, including his 1988 championship and 1985 Winston Million triumph.
1989-1990: Darrell Waltrip
After Rusty Wallace dumped him in the 1989 All-Star Race, Waltrip transformed from villain to hero, winning consecutive awards.
1991-2000: Bill Elliott
Elliott’s incredible 10-year streak showcased his enduring popularity through the 1990s.
2001: Dale Earnhardt
“The Intimidator” won posthumously after his tragic Daytona 500 death. Bill Elliott withdrew his name from consideration that year in tribute.
2002: Bill Elliott
Elliott’s final award brought his total to a record 16, a mark that still stands today.
The Earnhardt Jr. Era (2003-2017)
2003-2017: Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Junior’s unprecedented 15-consecutive-year streak represents NASCAR’s longest dominance of the award. His retirement ended the run, but his popularity never wavered.
“The 15-year streak Earnhardt Jr. amassed from 2003-2017 is an all-time record, one that ended only because he retired from full-time competition,” the NASCAR Hall of Fame noted.
The Chase Elliott Era (2018-Present)
2018-2024: Chase Elliott
Chase Elliott continued the Elliott-Earnhardt dynasty, winning seven consecutive awards. “I’ve always tried to take that opportunity to make sure I reflect in a proper manner and represent my family the way I think they would want to be represented throughout the years,” Elliott said at the 2024 NASCAR Awards.
2025: Chase Elliott (Expected)
While official results aren’t announced until November 2025, Elliott remains the frontrunner to extend his streak to eight consecutive years, keeping the award in Elliott-Earnhardt hands for an astounding 35 consecutive seasons.