New Venue, New Challenges
NASCAR’s Cup Series rolled into a brand‑new 3.4‑mile street circuit in downtown San Diego for a 50‑minute practice session that gave teams their first real taste of the layout.
Kyle Larson emerged fastest, posting a blistering lap of 2:16.588, setting the benchmark for the rest of the field.
Behind him, Todd Gilliland, Ty Gibbs, Connor Zilisch and Carson Hocevar rounded out the top five, each navigating the tight turns and elevation changes that defined the course.
The session was not without drama; Austin Cindric spun out, Brad Keselowski clipped the tire barrier, and Jimmie Johnson executed a full 360‑degree spin without making contact.
Former Formula One driver Kevin Magnussen made his Cup debut, but the American hit the wall twice, underscoring the difficulty of the new venue.
Christopher Bell, racing with a fractured left wrist, was relieved part‑way through by rookie Brent Crews, who took over the wheel for a brief stint.
Austin Hill became the first driver to break into the 2:17‑second bracket, and the teams utilized three sets of tires, with lap times improving as fresh rubber took effect.
Shane van Gisbergen posted the fastest five‑lap average, yet a miscommunication kept him from using his final set of tires, a decision that left fans wondering about the potential impact.
No driver exceeded 15 laps, and the session concluded without a red flag, leaving the stage set for a competitive qualifying weekend.