As the NASCAR Cup Series drivers brace themselves for the reconfigured Charlotte Roval, one driver stands out for his unexpectedly optimistic outlook. While many in the garage are dreading the added challenges, 23XI Racing’s Tyler Reddick sees the new layout as a potential advantage, especially for those who thrive on road courses like himself.
The changes to the Roval include turtle curbing and modifications to the crucial Turn 6-7 complex, along with tweaks to the notorious corkscrew chicane. These adjustments are expected to make an already chaotic race even more unpredictable. JGR veteran drivers have voiced concerns that the alterations are designed to increase the chaos, with some feeling it could lead to unnecessary carnage on race day. However, Reddick doesn’t entirely share their skepticism.
Reddick, the 2024 regular season champion, believes that the early stages of the race may remain relatively controlled. But he also acknowledged that as the race nears its conclusion, with desperation setting in among mid-pack drivers fighting for position, things could quickly spiral into disarray.
“I don’t think they’ll change a whole lot in the beginning,” Reddick explained, “but certainly, I think when teams and drivers get desperate towards the end or so mid to the back of the pack, that corner can get pretty interesting.”
He noted that drivers at the front of the field, like himself, could use strategy to build enough separation by Turn 7 to avoid potential incidents. Reddick is clearly aiming to position himself at the front early, using his road-course prowess to stay out of the looming wreckage behind.
“I think for most cars up front, if you do your part, you should be able to create enough separation by Turn 7 and not have to really worry about many moves.”
Despite the concerns from some drivers, Reddick has embraced the changes. He sees them as a way to level the playing field, creating opportunities for road course specialists to shine. His confidence comes at a crucial time, as he sits on the playoff elimination bubble and needs a solid finish to advance to the next round.
“I feel good about it. The changes to the course—typically, anytime something changes on any type of track, it helps me, I feel like. It levels the field a little bit. It should be good for us.”
As one of the strongest road course racers in the field, Reddick is ready to take full advantage of the revised layout. While many drivers will struggle to adapt to the unfamiliar turns and braking zones, Reddick sees the chaos as an opportunity to secure an early lead and avoid the mid-pack chaos. His strategy is clear: stay ahead, stay clean, and capitalize on his road course skills to secure his spot in the next round of the playoffs.
The Charlotte Roval’s changes may spell trouble for some, but for Reddick, it’s just another chance to prove why he’s one of the best in the business when the twists and turns get tricky.
