A practice session reshaped
NASCAR is set to double the allotted practice time for its Cup Series teams, moving from two separate 25‑minute sessions to a single 50‑minute slot. The change will take effect beginning with next month’s race weekend at New Hampshire, where all cars will be on track together for the extended period.
The new format also grants teams two fresh tire sets, allowing them to run multiple configurations in search of performance gains. This extra time is aimed primarily at mid‑size outfits that have traditionally relied on simulation data and computer modeling to develop chassis setups, a practice that has historically favored the bigger manufacturer alliances.
Why the extra minutes matter
Under the previous schedule, teams were forced to base their aerodynamic and suspension decisions on limited on‑track mileage, which often benefited the well‑resourced programs aligned with Chevrolet, Ford or Toyota. The additional session gives smaller teams a chance to fine‑tune their cars directly, potentially reshaping the competitive balance.
The logistics are straightforward: cars will remain on pit road and will not be permitted to enter the garage area during the session, but the extra track time should provide ample opportunity for experimentation. However, the policy will not be applied to superspeedway venues such as Daytona and Talladega, which will continue to forgo practice altogether, and the championship‑deciding weekend at Homestead will retain its existing schedule.
While the move promises more on‑track action for fans, it also raises questions about how teams will manage tire usage and strategy within the compressed window. NASCAR officials say the change is experimental and will be evaluated after the New Hampshire event before any broader rollout.
Implications for manufacturers
The extra session could shift the balance of power among the three major manufacturers, giving smaller teams more data to compete with the established giants. Chevrolet, Ford and Toyota will all be watching closely as the new format unfolds.