would not apologize typically – if ever. However the face of ESPN ought to in relation to his feedback on drivers.
The face of ESPN’s “First Take” blasted NASCAR drivers earlier this spring, making it clear that he would not think about them to be in the identical class as athletes like and gamers. Smith made his feedback on his radio present, when discussing a number of the greatest athletes of all-time.
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“Come on, man. That don’t rely. You driving a automotive!” Smith started, through . “I’m being sincere. It’s an incredible sport. However come on, bro. Getting behind the wheel of a automotive isn’t the identical.
“You could be behind the wheel of a automotive in your 60s and 70s for crying out loud.”
Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith seems to be on earlier than the sport between the Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium. Necessary Credit score: Jerome Miron-Imagn Pictures© Jerome Miron-Imagn Pictures
Smith added of golfers: “simply since you gotta stroll the course for 18 holes for 4 days, that don’t make you an athlete.”
However Smith is clearly not acquainted with what he is speaking about.
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“When you don’t know something about racing, simply maintain your opinion to your self since you shouldn’t even have an opinion for those who don’t know something a few sport,” NASCAR announcer Kevin Harvick mentioned.
“I feel that is simply occasion the place Stephen A. Smith is on the lookout for clicks on one thing he is aware of completely nothing about what he’s speaking about.”
Smith ought to apologize for what he mentioned
Smith clearly would not know what he is speaking about in relation to NASCAR drivers. They’re very a lot athletes. The energy, conditioning and psychological focus that it takes to drive a robust automotive at speeds better than 200 MPH is one thing that Smith clearly isn’t acquainted with.
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He clearly would not respect the game, which is maybe comprehensible contemplating that he is spent no time round it.
Nonetheless, he ought to be taught his lesson, and never speak about issues that he would not have a agency grasp on.
Smith ought to attend a NASCAR race or two – even perhaps get to take a seat within the passenger seat of a top-speed automotive – and notice what he was flawed about.
After which he ought to apologize.
This story was initially printed by on Might 31, 2026, the place it first appeared within the part. Add The Spun as a
