Slate sits trackside at the French Grand Prix, revealing that the international Formula One racing series isn’t as hoity-toity as you might think. Except for the multiple languages, the fans would fit in at any NASCAR event. Though there are major differences, including the open-wheel cars, less passing, little “swapping paint” (you try rubbing metal fenders with your punctureable rubber tires sticking out like that), and most notably, left and right turns, which the writer notes is where the real driving happens (NASCAR take note).

Of course Sunday’s pit crew brawl really solidifies NASCAR’s good ol’ boy American image, something you probably won’t see in Formula One (then again, those Europeans sure know how to have a good soccer riot). And if you’re still anti-NASCAR, check out the conversion of this Sports Illustrated writer.