No Driving Gloves

The Polish Prince's Victory LapOn November 6, 1988, the air at Phoenix International Raceway crackled with excitement as Alan Kulwicki, the Polish Prince, tasted victory in his first NASCAR Winston Cup race. Adrenaline coursed through his veins like wildfire, fueling his daring decision to steer his car against the tide of the inaugural Checker 500. This bold act on that fateful autumn day breathed life into the now-famous Polish Victory Lap.A celebrated tradition in the world of auto racing, the Polish Victory Lap sees the triumphant driver defying convention and speeding around the track in reverse, checkered flag proudly waving like a battle standard outside their window. Kulwicki's Polish heritage lent itself to both his nickname and this unique celebration of victory.Kulwicki not only created that unforgettable victory dance, According to NASCAR lore, prior to the 1992 Hooters 500 (the final race of the season), Kulwicki got permission from Ford to change the "Thunderbird" lettering on his bumper to "Und