NASCAR has announced significant adjustments to its practice schedule for both the Xfinity Series and the Cup Series at the Charlotte Motor Speedway, in response to recent changes made to the infield portion of the course. This decision reflects NASCAR’s commitment to ensuring that teams and drivers have ample time to adapt to the updated track conditions and to refine their setups ahead of upcoming races.
The alterations include a new 50-minute practice session for all Xfinity Series cars. This extended practice time is designed to allow drivers and teams to acclimate to the modifications in the infield section of the track. The infield changes, which involve alterations to the track layout or surface, necessitate additional practice to ensure that teams can optimize their cars’ performance and safety under the new conditions. This session aims to provide drivers with a comprehensive opportunity to test their setups and adjust to the revised configuration.
For the Cup Series, the schedule includes two separate 20-minute practice sessions for each group of cars. This segmented approach allows for a more detailed assessment of how different cars and setups perform under the new track conditions. The split sessions are expected to enable teams to make more precise adjustments and to evaluate their strategies with the altered infield section.
In addition to the changes at Charlotte, Cup Series teams will also benefit from an extra 20-minute practice session at Watkins Glen International. This additional time is being allocated specifically to address the new tire code introduced during the June test at the Glen. The tire code adjustment is a critical change that could impact handling and performance, and the extra practice session will help teams better understand and adapt to these new tire specifications.
These changes underscore NASCAR’s ongoing efforts to maintain competitive balance and ensure safety by providing teams with the necessary time to adapt to new conditions and regulations. By extending practice sessions and offering additional time to test new tire codes, NASCAR aims to enhance the racing experience for both drivers and fans.
The adjustments are expected to be well-received by teams, as they provide valuable opportunities to fine-tune cars and strategies. As the racing season progresses, these proactive measures will help teams navigate the evolving track conditions and tire specifications, contributing to more competitive and thrilling races.
