Many, if not most drivers at the upper levels of motorsports are at best arrogant, some more closer to being a true a-hole. It seems to be a trait necessary to excel in the sport. To reach the top level takes not only driving skill, but a mentality of me first, screw you if you are in my way.
A developing driver will accept a ride that he needs to advance his career, and have that team take him to the next level by leaving it for a better offer with little if any remorse, or even a look back.
To retain the top level once reached requires being willing to do whatever it takes to stay there. Just as Tony Stewart said, "I'd wreck my mother to win a championship, I'd wreck your mother to win a championship", funny, but he really wasn't joking.
The adage "Nice guys finish last" had to be originally meant for auto racing.