10 Most Polarizing NASCAR Drivers of the Modern Era: No. 8 Will Surprise You [Opinion]Love them or hate them, these are the top ten drivers that have earned the fury of NASCAR fans. From questionable moves on the track to heated comments caught on live tv, here’s exactly why the grandstands start to boo when they gear up and get ready to race.10. Kyle BuschKyle Busch’s 2011 incident with Ron Hornaday Jr. during a Truck Series under caution at Texas Motor Speedway showed his rowdy side and his exceptionally flashy driving style. This controversial crash made him one of the most disliked drivers in NASCAR. After a tense race at Martinsville Speedway, Busch commented during a live interview using a disability slur, describing Brad Keselowski’s move on track, which also attracted a lot of hatred from the fans.9. William ByronWilliam Byron started his career in iRacing before joining the Hendrick Motorsports, a non-traditional path that is judged by NASCAR fans. In 2022, during a race at Texas Motor Speedway, he caused a crash involving Denny Hamlin which cost him playoff points and sparked a debate on his racing style. The No.24 driver has a smooth style but doesn’t necessarily thrill fans.8. Chase ElliottChase Elliott’s popularity has divided since his repeated feuds with Denny Hamlin and growing instances for retaliatory moves on track. His 2023 suspension for intentionally wrecking Hamlin at Coca-Cola 600 shocked many fans who saw a darker side. Critics believe his polished image is a mask hiding his true personality while some are simply frustrated because he is widely admired7. Austin HillNASCAR suspended Austin Hill for one Xfinity Series race after he intentionally crashed Aric Almirola at Indianapolis. Hill also lost 21 playoff points and became ineligible to earn more before the playoffs under NASCAR’s new 2025 rule. The incident sparked heavy criticism from fans, with many supporting the strict punishment.6. Cody WareCody Ware is often criticized for driving in NASCAR due to his wealthy father. He drives the No.51 car for his father’s company called Rick Ware racing. His results are usually inclined towards the back of the pack, many laps behind the leaders, many fans believe his seat in the cup takes the chances of deserving young talent. With assault charges against him in 2023 makes the followers dislike him even more.5. Austin DillonIn 2024, Austin Dillon ended a 68-race winless streak at Richmond after spinning Joey Logano and Denny Hamlin on the final lap. The controversial move triggered massive backlash from fans, while NASCAR ruled the victory ineligible for playoff benefits, docking Dillon 25 driver points and removing playoff eligibility.4. Ty GibbsTy Gibbs is a very young driver, carrying the pressure of the family name behind his back. The grandson of Joe Gibbs gets targeted by fans for nepotism and is constantly under scrutiny. In 2022, during the NASCAR Xfinity Martinsville Speedway, he bumped Sam Mayer aggressively leading to a heated exchange between the two and upset many fans. He is perceived as a short-empered and impatient by many.3. Denny HamlinWhile Denny Hamlin might be a three time Daytona 500 winner who drives the No.11 Joe Gibbs Toyota with calculated skill, he is yet to win the hearts of NASCAR supporters. Whether it his insensitive tweet on Kyle Larson or his long running fight with Chase Elliott that started when Hamlin bumped Eliott from behind with just a few laps to go, taking him out of the lead. Fans also take a sour note towards him for co-owning 23XI, which they feel gives him an unfair advantage.2. Kyle LarsonKyle Larson is considered one of the most talented drivers in NASCAR. His incredible speed in the No.5 car for Hendrick Motorsports and driving skill stands out, but in 2020, competing at a live iRacing event, Larson used a racial slur which tainted his reputation and got him fired by Chip Ganassi Racing. He might have returned to the sport after rehabilitation, many fans fail to forgive him.1. Joey LoganoOften seen as the most disliked driver in modern day NASCAR, Joey Logano stands on top. In 2015, Joey spun Matt Kenseth while fighting for the win, taking him out of the championship, starting one of the most talked about feuds in NASCAR history. Logano’s aggressive driving and unapologetic bump and run maneuver may help him win races but it doesn’t win him fan’s support.