Tire-strategy choices return for Cup Series race at Richmond

NASCAR officials announced on Tuesday that this summer’s Cup Series event at Richmond Raceway will feature two Goodyear tire options for teams to choose from. This procedural change for the Aug. 11 Cook Out 400 (6 p.m. ET, USA Network, MRN Radio, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, NBC Sports App) comes after a successful test during last month’s NASCAR All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway, marking the first time it will be implemented in a points-paying race.

“The All-Star Race is a unique event that provides us with the opportunity to experiment,” said Elton Sawyer, NASCAR senior vice president of competition. “It allowed us to test different tire compounds and work on improving the short-track package. Although we didn’t get the expected results at Wilkesboro, similar opportunities at Bristol and Iowa showed promise. Managing tire strategy often leads to great racing, and we hope to replicate that at Richmond.”

Teams will have access to two types of Goodyear tires for Richmond’s 400-lap race: a softer “option” tire that offers more short-term grip but less durability, and a harder “prime” tire that lasts longer but provides less grip. The option tires will have red sidewall lettering, while the prime tires will feature the traditional yellow labeling. White-lettered wet-weather tires will also be available if conditions require.

Teams will be allocated six sets of prime tires and two sets of option tires for the race, including one prime set carried over from qualifying. An extended practice session will allow teams to use one set of each tire type during the 45-minute stint. The limited availability of option tires over 400 laps is expected to add a strategic element to the race.

“After the 45-minute practice session, we’ll work with Goodyear and the teams to evaluate the longevity of both tire types and make any necessary adjustments,” Sawyer said. “Our initial allotment was decided in collaboration with Goodyear based on prior history at the track.”

Teams will not be allowed to mix tire types (e.g., left-side prime tires and right-side options), but unlike the All-Star Race, they may start the race on their tire compound of choice. Qualifying must be done on prime tires, but teams can select either compound at other times.

Stu Grant, general manager for Goodyear Global Race Tires, hinted last month that another race could feature the tire-choice format, with data from a tire test at Iowa Speedway on May 28 influencing the decision.

“The option tire concept is exciting for strategy and the sport,” Grant said before the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. “While other forms of racing have used option tires, NASCAR has only recently embraced it. The idea gained traction as we looked to improve short-track racing, and the North Wilkesboro test was a good initial step. Now, we move forward with that data.”

Sawyer noted ongoing discussions with Goodyear and meetings with drivers, crew chiefs, and team officials since the All-Star Race. The accelerated timeline for producing the All-Star Race tires has now been eased, giving more time to prepare the Richmond tires.

“The extra time has allowed us to make informed decisions for Richmond,” Sawyer said. “After Richmond, we’ll evaluate and decide on future steps.”

Future short-track opportunities for tire-option races would occur during the Cup Series Playoffs, with Bristol Motor Speedway (Sept. 21), Martinsville Speedway (Nov. 3), and Phoenix Raceway (Nov. 10) on the schedule. However, NASCAR is cautious about making significant rule changes during the postseason.

“Richmond, being outside the playoffs, gives us a chance to test the concept,” Sawyer said. “While we’re open to the idea, implementing tire options in the playoffs would require extensive discussion and alignment with the industry, teams, and broadcast partners. It’s too early to make that decision until after we evaluate Richmond.”