NASCAR is considering raising the horsepower limit for Cup Series cars at short track events following strong lobbying from drivers and teams. Currently, the horsepower is capped at 670 on short tracks, intermediate ovals, and road courses. However, a potential increase to 750 horsepower is under review and could be implemented during this season.
NASCAR Responds to Calls for Enhanced Short-Track Performance
Mike Forde, NASCAR’s Managing Director of Communications, explained that the proposal emerged from a proactive discussion aimed at improving the short-track package.
“It was something we proactively brought up to have a further discussion of improving the short-track package,”
Forde said. He added that drivers strongly supported the idea of more horsepower and NASCAR is collaborating with engine builders to explore the possibility.
“So we said, ‘You got it. We’ll look into it.’ We are working with engine builders on that, and we’ll see if this is something that’s put into place this season,”
he confirmed.
Ryan Blaney Emphasizes the Need for Gradual Power Increases
Ryan Blaney, one of the drivers pushing for more horsepower, shared his thoughts during media sessions at Nashville Superspeedway. Though initially skeptical, he clearly supports the idea of adding more power.
“People will still complain no matter what,”
Blaney stated.
“If we put 1,000 horsepower on it, they’ll still complain and the fans will complain.”
Blaney encourages experimentation with horsepower changes despite uncertain outcomes.
“You’ve got to try something. I mean, there’s no shame in trying and just seeing what happens. We’ve tried plenty of stuff and it hasn’t worked but you try it and that’s all you can ask for.”
Specifically about increasing horsepower to 750, he commented,
“That’d be great. Baby steps, keep moving up.”
AJ Allmendinger Supports the Proposal and Highlights Potential Benefits
AJ Allmendinger echoed Blaney’s views and noted that this might be the first time NASCAR has openly considered such an increase.
“I feel like we talk about this all the time,”
Allmendinger said.
“I think (it’s) maybe at least the first time publicly that (NASCAR has) probably been open to it.”
As a Kaulig Racing driver, he discussed how the additional horsepower could influence race dynamics while acknowledging uncertainty about the full impact.
“How much will it help? I don’t know. Will it hurt? I don’t think it’ll hurt by any means.”
Allmendinger also praised Goodyear’s efforts to soften tires to increase wear-and-tear during races and argued for raising horsepower to at least 750.
“Goodyear’s been doing a great job of trying to soften the tire to get them to wear out a little bit more. What that number is? You’ve got to at least go 750.”
He mentioned that if given the choice, most drivers might accept running 800 or even 900 horsepower, though such a significant jump seems unlikely. He suggested that 750 horsepower would be a solid starting point, with 800 as an ideal target. Importantly, he stressed that any horsepower changes must align with engine manufacturers‘ preferences. While not a cure-all, he believes the increase could contribute positively to racing.
Potential Impact and Next Steps for NASCAR Horsepower Increase
The ongoing discussions and support from key drivers like Ryan Blaney and AJ Allmendinger indicate that NASCAR might move forward with allowing more horsepower on short tracks this season. This change aims to improve racing excitement and maintain competitive balance, while working closely with engine builders and tire manufacturers to ensure safety and performance standards. The sanctioning body‘s decision could mark a significant shift in how Cup Series cars perform, with teams eager to adapt to the new specifications and fans anticipating a more dynamic racing experience.
