Several drivers across the Xfinity and Truck Series have voiced that their vehicles provide a better driving experience compared to the Next Gen car in the Cup Series. These criticisms mainly focus on the Next Gen car’s limitations, particularly its difficulty in enabling overtakes during races. Despite this, the value of continuous complaints without actionable solutions remains questionable in improving the racing environment.
Carson Hocevar, a young driver from Spire Motorsports, addressed these issues in a press interaction at Kansas earlier this month. Although he shares the frustration about struggling to pass competitors on track, Hocevar emphasizes the futility of dwelling on complaints without having workable proposals for change.
He stated,
“It’s irrelevant for us if we’re going to complain and don’t have true solutions that are proven, right? And I think that’s where a lot of us are.”
“We complain, but we only complain to a certain extent because we don’t have a solution. So if you’re really complaining, then if you don’t have a solution, what do you expect to change if you don’t have the solution?”
Hocevar chooses to leave solution-finding to NASCAR leadership while focusing on enjoying the racing itself, without letting frustration about passing difficulties take a toll on his mindset. He also noted that top performers like Kyle Larson, who often dominate races by leading most laps, might be less affected by these driving conditions, though this assumption may not fully capture the broader driver sentiment.
Kyle Larson Highlights Contrast Between Xfinity and Next Gen Cup Cars
Kyle Larson, who has competed in numerous Xfinity Series races this season, draws a clear distinction between the racing dynamics of the Xfinity and Cup Series vehicles. Following his victory at the Andy’s Frozen Custard 300 in Texas, Larson remarked on the enjoyment he finds in the second-tier series.
He explained,
“You can run much closer to people in Xfinity, which is nice.”
Larson further commented,
“Kind of run in their wake a little bit better, and not be upset. So, the Cup [Series] car is much tougher to get to people and pass them. You can’t really manipulate their car. So, yeah, that makes it fun. When you get to come back to Xfinity and kind of not worry about dirty air quite as much.”
Other drivers, including Denny Hamlin and William Byron, have echoed similar concerns regarding the handling and passability of the Next Gen Cup car. In response, NASCAR and related teams continue to work on improvements in the racing product to enhance competitiveness and spectacle.
Ongoing Efforts and the Need for Patience Among Fans and Drivers
While the dissatisfaction around the Next Gen car persists among many drivers and fans, development efforts remain active to address existing shortcomings. Hocevar’s pragmatic stance reflects a cautious optimism, underscoring the importance of trusting the process rather than focusing on unproductive grievances.
As the season unfolds, stakeholders across the sport are closely watching how proposed adjustments and innovations might improve passing opportunities and racing quality. The challenges faced today highlight the complexities of evolving race car design and its impact on competition, making patience and constructive feedback essential for future progress in the Cup Series.
