Photo by Joe Robbins/NASCAR via Getty Images
By Peyton Lohr
Announcement and Context
NASCAR officials announced: On Tuesday, officials revealed that the upcoming Cup Series race at Richmond Raceway will feature two different types of Goodyear tires.
Event specifics: The race, named the Cook Out 400, is scheduled for August 11 at 6 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on USA Network, MRN Radio, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, and the NBC Sports App.
Background
Previous Test: Last month, a similar tire experiment was conducted during the NASCAR All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway, which was a non-points event. The Richmond race marks the first time this experiment will be applied in a points-paying race.
Purpose: The All-Star Race provided a testing ground for these tire changes, allowing NASCAR to gather data and learn from the experience to improve the short-track racing package.
Details of Tire Choices
Two Types of Tires:
Option Tire: A softer compound that offers more grip but wears out faster.
Prime Tire: A harder compound that lasts longer but provides less grip.
Identification:
Option tires: Marked with red sidewall lettering.
Prime tires: Marked with traditional yellow lettering.
Wet-weather tires: Identified with white lettering, available for use in damp conditions on road courses and shorter ovals.
Allocation and Usage
Tire Allocation: Each team will receive six sets of prime tires and two sets of option tires for the race, including one set of prime tires carried over from qualifying.
Practice Session: Teams will have an extended 45-minute practice session where they can use one set of each tire type to gather data on performance and durability.
Strategy Considerations: With only two sets of option tires available over 400 laps, teams will need to strategize carefully on when to deploy them to maximize their advantage.
Rules and Regulations
Mixing Prohibited: Teams cannot mix tire types on the car, such as using prime tires on one side and option tires on the other.
Starting Tire Choice: Unlike the All-Star Race, teams are allowed to start the race on either tire compound of their choosing. However, they must qualify on prime tires.
Post-Practice Adjustments: NASCAR and Goodyear will evaluate tire performance after the practice session and may make adjustments based on the findings.
Future Implications
Evaluation Post-Richmond: The performance and outcomes of the Richmond race will serve as a critical data point for NASCAR to determine the feasibility of using dual tire options in future races.
Playoff Considerations: The next short-track opportunities for the dual tire format are during the Cup Series Playoffs, including races at Bristol, Martinsville, and Phoenix. However, significant procedural changes during the playoffs are approached cautiously.
Ongoing Discussions: NASCAR officials have been in continuous discussions with Goodyear, drivers, crew chiefs, and team officials to refine the tire strategy and ensure alignment across all stakeholders.
Conclusion
Next Steps: Depending on the results and feedback from the Richmond race, NASCAR will decide on the future implementation of the tire-choice format, potentially considering it for subsequent short-track races, including those in the playoff season.
Photo by nascar.com
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