Originally Posted by SoIllSprinter:
The pits during the event is a workplace and should be treated as such, fans shouldn’t be allowed. After races open the pits. The NASCARs and Indy Cars of the world give tours prior to the event, maybe that’s possible for the big sprint shows as well. I would hazard a guess that many drivers leave early after the show because not only have they worked their tails off but they have done so under a microscope of constant fans around the work area. Maybe more would stay around for meet and greets if the pits were closed during the event. I have personally heard that fans in pits are becoming more confrontational as well, which is not a pleasant work space for anyone.
To parrot Funk above, though I haven’t done so in years, I’ve never had an experience that wasn’t positive when talking with drivers, owners, or crew after a race, they were all exceedingly accommodating.
Agree with this wholeheartedly. Unless you are a team member, official, or media you don't belong in their work space during an event. Have someone come and stand in front of your truck or tractor or forklift or sit on your desk while you're trying to work and see how you like it. But there is a tradeoff for that, teams have to be willing to stay a reasonable time after an event to interact with fans. Hey if there are three-four more features after yours, how about you drivers go to the fans? Go to the stands, sign some hats, give away a few shirts if you got 'em. For many fans that night may be the only opportunity they have to interact with you. For you as a driver, tht night might be your 15 minutes of fame. Don't f*ck it up.