NASCAR Changing Cup Series Starting Lineup Procedure in 2024
NASCAR will be making changes to its Cup Series starting lineup procedure in 2024 after receiving feedback from drivers. The new system aims to address the issue of group designation heavily impacting a driver's position on the starting grid. Previously, drivers were split into two groups based on various metrics such as previous race finish, point standings, and fastest lap. This often resulted in one group having significantly faster times than the other, leading to unfair starting positions. The new system will assign starting positions based on group qualification, with Group A starting on the outside row for Rows 6-20, and Group B starting on the inside row for Rows 6-20. The top 10 spots will still be determined by the final round of qualifying.
NASCAR Changes Cup Series Starting Lineup Procedure
NASCAR has announced changes to the Cup Series starting lineup procedure for the 2024 season. These changes come after drivers voiced their concerns over the impact of group designation on their starting positions. Previously, drivers were split into two groups based on a metric that included previous race finish, point standings, and fastest lap. However, it was not uncommon to see one group with significantly faster times than the other. This led to drivers missing out on top-10 starting positions despite performing well within their group.
To address this issue, NASCAR will now assign starting positions based on group qualification. Drivers in Group A will start on the outside row for Rows 6-20, while drivers in Group B will start on the inside row for Rows 6-20. The starting positions for the top 10 spots will continue to be determined by the final round of qualifying. This change will not apply to superspeedway events where drivers do not qualify in groups.
Other Procedure Changes for 2024
In addition to the changes to the starting lineup procedure, NASCAR has also announced other notable procedure changes for the 2024 season. These changes include:
- The removal of windshield wipers and rain flaps for short tracks, with the only 'wet weather' package items being grooved tires and a defogger. NASCAR will no longer race in the rain at short tracks and will only race in damp conditions with no spray.
- Changes to the qualifying order for teams that change drivers from the previous race. Teams that wait until after the qualifying orders are posted will have their driver go first in the group.
- The use of a different muffler design to decrease heat generated by the mufflers during the Clash at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and the Chicago street race.
- The demonstration of a battery-run electric vehicle at the Clash, showcasing NASCAR's exploration of potential electric and hydrogen-fueled vehicles.
These changes aim to improve the efficiency and fairness of NASCAR events, while also exploring new technologies for future racing.
Layne Riggs Ready to Make His Mark in NASCAR Truck Series
Layne Riggs, the son of former NASCAR driver Scott Riggs, is set to embark on his first full-time NASCAR Truck season. Growing up around NASCAR racetracks, Layne initially had little interest in racing, but as he got older, he became more involved and passionate about the sport. Now, at 21 years old, Layne has signed a multi-year deal with Front Row Motorsports to drive the No. 38 Ford F-150 in the Craftsman Truck Series.
For Layne, this opportunity is a dream come true after years of hard work and dedication. He has already achieved success in various racing series, including winning the NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series championship in 2022. While Layne faces the challenge of competing at unfamiliar racetracks, he is determined to prove himself and make his mark in the Truck Series. Layne's debut season with Front Row Motorsports is highly anticipated, and he is eager to showcase his talent behind the wheel.
