Brian France
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Brian France (born August 2, 1962) is the CEO and chairman of NASCAR, taking over the position from his father, Bill France, Jr., in 2003 [1]. He had previously managed NASCAR's marketing department and touring divisions and was involved in the creation of the Craftsman Truck Series.
France is also the head of Brandsense, a marketing company whose clients include Tony Stewart, the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, and Britney Spears.
[edit] Career highlights
- Named one of the five most powerful sports executives by The Sporting News in 2005
- Oversaw the beginning of the Chase for the NEXTEL Cup in 2004
- Negotiated new television deals with several networks in 1999 and 2005
- Manager of NASCAR's Los Angeles office, becoming a liaison between NASCAR and the entertainment industry
- Co-founder of the Craftsman Truck Series in 1995
- Managed several short tracks, including Tucson Raceway Park in Arizona
[edit] Controversy
- Fans upset at recent changes in NASCAR, including the end of racing at North Carolina Speedway, the demise of the Southern 500, and the arrival of Toyota, attempting to discredit the championship of Matt Kenseth and the Car of Tomorrow in Cup racing have made France into a symbol of what they do not like about the sport.Example from Mike Kuver at Laidback Racing
