NASCAR Xfinity Series: Rumours Swirl About Potential Car Changes
The NASCAR Next Gen Cup Series car has now been on the track for three years, sparking conversation about the future of other categories, particularly the Xfinity Series. NASCAR President Steve Phelps has hinted at the possibility of changes coming to the popular secondary series, leaving fans and teams wondering what the future holds.
While the Next Gen car has produced thrilling races on intermediate tracks, it has been criticized for generating lackluster competition on road courses and short tracks. In contrast, the Xfinity Series consistently delivers exciting races across all track types. The series’s unique car package allows young drivers to showcase their talent and develop their skills, making it a breeding ground for future NASCAR stars.
In fact, many Cup Series drivers have expressed admiration for the handling characteristics of the Xfinity car, wishing it could be translated to the Cup Series.
Speaking at Race Industry Week 2024, Phelps addressed the whispers of change circulating throughout the NASCAR world. "I think we’ll continue to fine-tune what that car is," he explained.
"It’s an industry-wide thing. It’s not just, ‘Hey NASCAR’s going to do this, this, and this.’ It really is working with our OEs [manufacturer] partners, working with Goodyear, working with our race teams. And we’re in constant collaboration with those groups, with those stakeholder groups."
Phelps confirmed that NASCAR was exploring options for the Xfinity Series, acknowledging the importance of collaboration.
"You know, I think there’s some other opportunities for us in the lower series to make some changes. What those look like, I don’t know, but we’ll keep iterating on the Next Gen car. I think we’re looking at some things in the Xfinity Series, nothing to announce now. I think there’s some things we need to do with our race teams in the Xfinity Series as well as OEs that are existing and potential new OEs that could be in that series and in our Truck Series.”
The potential for changes to the Xfinity car raises questions among fans, as the series currently enjoys a prestigious position in the NASCAR ecosystem. Often described as the "College Football" of stock car racing, the Xfinity Series provides a platform for young drivers to hone their skills and make their mark on the sport. The current car allows for exceptional racing and emphasizes driver skill, attracting a huge and passionate fanbase.
However, NASCAR’s commitment to evolution and improvement means that changes are inevitable. While the exact details remain shrouded in secrecy, Phelps’s words suggest that 2026 or 2027 could be defining years for the future of the NASCAR Xfinity Series and its beloved cars.
Speaking to Brad Gillie as part of Race Industry Week 2024,
