Larson Sets the Pace in All‑Star Practice
Kyle Larson topped the speed charts during Friday’s NASCAR All‑Star Race practice at Dover, posting a blistering lap of 22.792 seconds, which translates to an average speed of 157.95 mph around the one‑mile concrete oval.
The session featured the full complement of 36 entries, all of whom are slated to compete in the 350‑lap All‑Star event that will unfold over the weekend, with the field being trimmed to ten drivers before the final segment.
Among the drivers yet to secure a spot in the final segment, Michael McDowell emerged as the quickest, while Ricky Stenhouse Jr. settled 13th overall, followed by Riley Herbst, Connor Zilisch and Erik Jones in the subsequent positions. The top five also included Denny Hamlin, Kyle Busch and Ty Gibbs.
Carson Hocevar proved dominant in long‑run speed metrics, leading the ten‑lap, 15‑lap, 20‑lap, 25‑lap and 30‑lap averages, underscoring his strong endurance pace.
Ross Chastain was the first to break the 23‑second barrier, but Larson quickly reclaimed the fastest time. Meanwhile, Ryan Blaney reported a flat left‑rear tire, though he returned to the garage without incident.
Chase Briscoe made contact with the outside wall at the exit of Turn 2, sustaining damage to the right side of his No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota and heading back to the garage for repairs. He also logged the most laps of the session, completing 101 circuits.
The practice run offered a preview of the competitive dynamics that could shape the All‑Star Race, with several drivers showing strong speed and others facing mechanical setbacks.