NASCAR Makes Surprise Move To Dramatically Lower Power of Cars
There will be a different look to NASCAR in 2019 after numerous changes were announced to Cup Series cars.
The changes are designed to increase the chances of lead changes during races and lessen the “follow-the-leader” mentality that has been prevalent in recent seasons.
Cup cars will have a higher rear spoiler and less horsepower, and aero ducts will be installed at some tracks in an attempt to make passing easier.
Those are just some of the changes being made.
the 2019 NASCAR rules package seems pretty interesting, I just have some concerns about the proposed 8-foot tall spoiler pic.twitter.com/C7T483paQu
— Steve Luvender (@steveluvender) October 2, 2018
“Let me dispel the myth that NASCAR is interested in pack racing everywhere,” Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR executive vice president and chief racing development officer, said Tuesday afternoon, according to ESPN. “That is not at all what this package is. This package is to take the best from the short tracks, the best from the superspeedways and meet in between.
“Do we want more cars on the lead lap? Absolutely. Do we want tighter racing? Absolutely. Do we expect three-wide every lap? No. The best drivers and the best teams are still going to win the race.”
Nick Bromberg of Yahoo Sports pointed out that the “myth” of pack racing wasn’t a myth at all.
It was started by NASCAR CEO and Chairman Brian France.
Brian France in 2015 after a race at Kentucky.
"I'll tell you what we didn't see what we would like to see more of is more drafting. We didn't see as much as we would have liked and more pack racing.”
It’s a myth that started from the guy who was in charge of NASCAR. https://t.co/ITC7q9Qv1e
— Nick Bromberg (@NickBromberg) October 2, 2018
The rules are based on an experiment used at the All-Star Race in May. That race produced close racing due to cars having choked-down engines and aero ducts installed to keep them closer together.
The changes for the 2019 season won’t cut down on the horsepower as much, but aero ducts will be installed at all tracks larger than a mile except for Atlanta, Darlington, Pocono and Homestead.
Many current and former drivers weighed in on the changes, with most saying that the drivers themselves are what’s truly important, not the vehicles.
Nascar announced some rule changes for next season. Quite optimistic that this will be very entertaining, but mainly because of the drivers we have on the track today. The talented stars and personalities will always carry and elevate the sport, no matter the vehicle. https://t.co/g2IRGKVvVc
— Dale Earnhardt Jr. (@DaleJr) October 2, 2018
New challenges and opportunities are ahead for all of us drivers and teams, I look forward to embracing it personally. As long as the best still rise to the top, I support it. https://t.co/sNl7F8mtx9
— Chase Elliott (@chaseelliott) October 2, 2018
With these new changes, NASCAR is also hoping that there is an increase in the number of races an engine can be used.
In 2018, a team had to pick 13 races where it used an engine but could change cylinder heads, valves and valve springs between events.
In 2019, teams will still pick 13 races, but they can also choose three additional races where they don’t have to replace the cylinder heads and valves.
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