NASCAR to allow brake parts changes at Phoenix

NASCAR will allow Cup Series teams to change front brake rotors and pads after practice and qualifying this weekend at Phoenix Raceway in response to the issues seen last month at World Wide Technology Raceway.

The update was given to teams on Wednesday, stating that they “will be given the option to remove and replace front brake rotors and pads only. No other brake system components are permitted to be changed during the process.” NASCAR already allows teams to inspect the rear rotors during pre-race adjustments, and it will handle any issues found on a case-by-case basis.

“We’ve elected that we’re going to let the teams at least look at their brakes and if they need to make a pad change, which is uncommon for us to do on an impound practice, but we’ve got a procedure set up to do that,” said NASCAR Cup Series managing director Brad Moran on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. “So that’s going to be a little different. But again, first time going back to Phoenix, which is a high-energy brake racetrack and with the lower downforce and the more power, that’s going to change.

“And so, it should be exciting to see how these cars work there with the additional horsepower.”

It will be a welcome move for many, given that teams now have 50 minutes of practice each weekend, which adds work on parts and pieces and raises concerns. Teams and drivers previously asked NASCAR to allow them to change parts.

The WWTR race outside St. Louis on Sept. 13 was the last high-braking track for Cup Series teams, and multiple brake failures led to hard hits for drivers. Among those were Zane Smith, Ryan Blaney, Noah Gragson and Chase Elliott.

Other tracks with brake issues included Nashville Superspeedway, Iowa Speedway and New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Not only did NASCAR add additional practice halfway through this season, but the added horsepower also comes into play at some of those same tracks with brake issues: Phoenix, Nashville, Iowa, New Hampshire, and WWTR.