Statesville, North Carolina – NASCAR is set to introduce a new tire at its upcoming all-star race in an effort to enhance the racing experience for fans and drivers alike. The annual event will feature the use of a tire that incorporates rubber typically found in Goodyear’s rain tires, offering a potential boost in performance on dry tracks.
Scheduled for May 19 at North Wilkesboro Speedway, drivers in the main event will be equipped with two sets of “prime” tires, which are traditional slicks previously tested at the same track. Additionally, they will have two sets of “option” tires, featuring the rain tire rubber compound, to test their performance under race conditions.
The race will consist of 200 laps, with scheduled cautions at Lap 100 and Lap 150. Teams will have the flexibility to choose their tire strategy during these pit stops, allowing for strategic decision-making that could influence the outcome of the race.
Goodyear’s director of racing, Greg Stucker, expressed optimism about the new tire’s potential impact on short-track racing, emphasizing the importance of testing new technologies in a non-points setting like the all-star race. The goal is to replicate the success of rain tires on dry tracks, potentially improving competition on shorter circuits.
In addition to the tire experiment, the all-star race will also involve automatic qualifiers and open spots for other competitors. The format includes various qualifying sessions and heat races leading up to the main event, offering a comprehensive showcase of talent and strategy.
Overall, the all-star weekend promises excitement and innovation for NASCAR fans, as teams and drivers look to push the boundaries of performance in a non-traditional race setting. The introduction of new tire technologies and the inclusion of diverse entry options underscore NASCAR’s commitment to enhancing the sport for fans and participants alike.