Joey Logano opposes the idea of replacing the second Cup race in Richmond with another event in the future. The introduction of Next-Gen cars has had a significant impact on short-track racing in NASCAR. The sport has become less exciting due to traffic, lack of passing, and minimal tire wear. As NASCAR looks to expand and race in new locations, short-track venues are suffering as a result of the unchallenging racing product.
Recent reports suggest that Richmond Raceway will likely lose its second Cup race date, possibly to a road course. Even Hall of Famer Joey Logano, a two-time Cup champion and track enthusiast, has spoken out about the rumors and urged NASCAR to keep the second date.
Logano’s stance is supported by the fact that tire fall-off has been a key factor in producing good races at short tracks. However, only a few tracks can provide this, and even they struggle to deliver entertaining races due to repaving and the durability of the new cars and tires. Richmond Raceway must find a solution to preserve its place.
Logano emphasized that track repaving is a significant factor in the decline of the racing product. Advances in asphalt technology have made newly repaved tracks resistant to tire wear, and the longer lifespan of the asphalt is also problematic.
Tracks like Richmond are the backbone of the sport, and NASCAR should focus on improving the racing product there instead of replacing it. They should explore tire compounds that wear out more quickly, allowing races like the one at Bristol in 2024, and continue to invest in developing aerodynamic packages to enhance short-track racing.
