Stephen A. Smith has faced backlash from NASCAR driver Ryan Preece after the ESPN host controversially claimed that race car drivers are not athletes. Preece, who survived a terrifying crash at Daytona in 2023, responded to Smith's remarks made during his SiriusXM radio show this week.
Smith's Controversial Comments
During a debate about LeBron James' athletic longevity, a caller mentioned legendary driver Richard Petty. Smith retorted, 'Come on, man. That don't count. You driving a car! I'm being honest, it's a great sport. But come on, bro. Getting behind the wheel of a car is not the same. You can be behind the wheel of a car in your 60s and 70s for crying out loud. A golfer is not an athlete. A NASCAR driver is not an athlete.'
Preece's Fiery Response
These comments angered Preece, who barrel-rolled 10 times down the backstretch at Daytona in 2023. 'I'd love for him to go tumbling 13 times, have black eyes, and show up next week doing what you gotta do,' Preece said. 'I think your definition of an athlete certainly varies from person to person.' Preece has endured two sickening crashes at Daytona but emerged unscathed both times, despite a hospital stay after the first in 2023.
Smith's Other Controversy
This isn't the only controversial moment for Smith this week. On Friday, he left ESPN co-host Shae Cornette stunned after telling colleague Chiney Ogwumike he was 'turned on' by her French accent during 'First Take.' Ogwumike had spoken French while praising Rudy Gobert, and Smith's bizarre comment left Cornette covering her face in disbelief. Ogwumike, however, brushed it off with a laugh.
