Danica Patrick: Despite Controversies, Seven Reasons She's Wonderful for Racing

Danica Patrick is followed by controversy and anti-fans no matter where she goes. But despite those who discredit her and others that want her out of racing, there are some good reasons to keep the Go Daddy girl in a race car, especially in NASCAR, where ratings have seen a decline over the past few years.

Come along as I look at some reasons why Patrick should stay in a car and why people should be happy to have her in their series.

No. 7: Fans Learn from Her

While hardcore fans shake their heads listening to her explain her difficulties in learning the "stock car language," it is also a good thing.

New fans and those who don't have much experience with the terms that are used in stock car racing are encouraged to look a little further into NASCAR technical terms if they think they are learning with one of the more popular drivers.

No. 6: She Isn't Rushing Through the Levels

Her fans should stay encouraged because she isn't jumping right in with the big dogs in NASCAR and failing.

Instead, she is moving slowly and figuring out everything, giving her a better chance to learn how to drive the stock cars and being more successful in the long run.

No. 5: She's Good for a Controversial Statement

Danica Patrick is good at sending out controversial statements when least expected.

While she isn't a driver who will say something to stir up fans every week, she is good at keeping herself (and her circuit) in the media if she is frustrated about something.

No. 4: Even Non-Racing Outlets Pay Attention to Her

NASCAR does get a few words here and there on regular channels, but Danica takes it to a new level.

Usually the only NASCAR to get any attention is the Sprint Cup series but when Danica is running in the Nationwide race, the media talks about them as well.

It may not be a lot of coverage, but any positive coverage outside of a race broadcast or a racing network is good for the sport, and Danica provides that.

No. 3: She Brings in an Audience

While a lot of people just want to see what she'll do in her newest adventure, it does bring up ratings. Rating bring in sponsors, who bring in money.

Sure, the whole audience may only tune in to watch her run a few times but at least some of those people are going to get stuck on NASCAR racing and become long-term fans.

No. 2: Advertising

While her non-racing career has stirred some resentment against her, it is good for racing. People know she is a race car driver from her reputation and tune in to watch her run.

Yes, some of this comes from the media focusing on her, but her face really is everywhere.

All of this advertising is good for not only her but also for the circuit she is running in, since it gets free indirect advertising whenever she is seen.

Her Go Daddy commercials can be seen on TV, even during regular shows and she is on the cover of some magazines and inside other magazines.

Danica is everywhere, and this is good for all racing, but especially the series she is running in.

No. 1: She Attracts Girls

Racing is a male-dominated sport but Danica Patrick has the potential to attract more female interest in driving.

There are a lot of female fans but not many drivers. Patrick isn't the only female driver in the sport, but she is the most well-known and will encourage other girls to take a chance on the dream of racing competitively.

More girls bring in more fans of a different demographic, which helps bring in sponsors and money. It is really a win/win situation for racing.