James France

Son of stock car racing mogul William H.G. France (d. 1992); inherited Daytona Speedway and Nascar with brother Bill Jr. (d. 2007). Bill Jr. took over in 1972. Turned racing into a national obsession; made billions licensing TV rights. James is chief of International Speedway Corp.; stock down 11% in past 12 months. Privately held Nascar now run by Bill Jr.'s son Brian; cash-strapped fans having a hard time dropping money on tickets to races, Jeff Gordon hats. Bill's daughter Lesa is ISC president. Donated to Rudy Giuliani's failed presidential bid.