Underwear and socks have become a hot topic within NASCAR due to Updated safety rules to be implemented this year. NASCAR will now require drivers to wear flame-resistant helmet socks or skirts, undergarments and socks that meet SFI or FIA standards. In the past, flame-resistant materials for these garments were only recommended. It is unclear at this time how NASCAR will verify the new flame-resistant garments before races.
NASCAR is following in the footsteps of other racing organizations by requiring flame-resistant underwear. Last year, Formula 1 implemented checks on drivers’ jewelry and underwear before each race to meet International Sporting Code standards.
The new equipment requirements aren’t the only change NASCAR is making in an attempt to better protect its drivers. In a notable move for 2023, NASCAR Covers Teams’ Costs to Make Initial Safety Upgrades to Next Gen Cars.
Last October, NASCAR confirmed it was sending technical updates to teams for the Next Gen cars in hopes the changes would improve the crumple zone behind the drivers. NASCAR hopes this will reduce the impact drivers absorb in rear-end collisions.
At the time, Rick Hendrick even said that driver safety was the top priority, even if it meant incurring additional costs in the future.
“Our riders are so important, we don’t want them to get hurt,” Hendrick said. “So if that meant buying all new clips Monday morning, I would do it. I would be happy to do it. We want them to be safe.”
