Image by Nigel Kinrade/LAT
NASCAR tweaks rules after fast Talladega practice
Engine concerns and high speeds have led NASCAR to make changes ahead of final Monster Energy Cup Series practice at Talladega.
A one-inch wicker has been added to the spoiler and NASCAR is allowing teams to switch between two gear options (.345 and .350) until qualifying, which takes place tomorrow afternoon. Once teams get through qualifying, they then must keep that gear in the car for the GEICO 500.
https://twitter.com/roushfenway/status/1121866603275202561
NASCAR officials made these decisions were made after analyzing practice data and consulting with teams.
In a note to the media the sanctioning body stated, “It’s important to note that it’s a new package and we’re learning and making adjustments to make sure we’re in a good place when we get 40 cars on the track at the same time.”
Eight drivers hit the 202-mph mark Friday morning with 21 of the 37 drivers who participated in practice breaking 200 mph. Cup Series teams are working with a taller spoiler this weekend -- nine inches from eight -- and mandated teams bring the rear of the cars up higher.
The rules package for this weekend as well as the remaining two plate races at Daytona and Talladega were made following a test in February.
Final practice is scheduled for 3:35 p.m. CT.
Kelly Crandall
Kelly has been on the NASCAR beat full-time since 2013, and joined RACER as chief NASCAR writer in 2017. Her work has also appeared in NASCAR.com, the NASCAR Illustrated magazine, and NBC Sports. A corporate communications graduate from Central Penn College, Crandall is a two-time George Cunningham Writer of the Year recipient from the National Motorsports Press Association.
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