Joey Logano is a constant presence in the Xfinity broadcast booth and has extensive knowledge of the current state of the series.
NASCAR introduced the Next-Gen cars in the 2022 season with the main goal of creating a more equitable and competitive racing experience. As a result, they made several development decisions that transformed the cars into completely different entities compared to the Xfinity cars, where young NASCAR drivers are honing their skills.
One of the significant changes is the alteration in throttle time. Previously, drivers had more freedom to ease off the accelerator pedal during races, but now they can no longer afford the same ease due to the design of the cars. On the other hand, the Xfinity Series cars, which follow similar regulations to the old Cup cars, allow drivers enough time to release the accelerator.
The first champion of the Next-Gen era, Joey Logano, openly admitted to feeling envious of the Xfinity drivers for having this advantage. As a Fox Sports commentator on Saturdays, Logano often watches onboard footage of the Xfinity drivers. He really misses the moments when drivers can lift off the accelerator.
Joey Logano expresses his envy of the throttle-free time in Xfinity Series races. While it may not receive as much attention as other racing events, it is always an enjoyable listen.
The two-time Cup champion recalls fellow champion Kyle Larson’s words about IndyCar, highlighting the significant difference between Cup and Xfinity cars. Larson, after testing an IndyCar for his debut at the Indy 500 with Arrow McLaren, noted that the IndyCar now drives similarly to current Cup cars, which was not the case in the past.
During Larson’s media availability in Indy, he mentioned how the Next-Gen car now drives somewhat similar to an Indy car. I found that the most surprising thing I’ve ever heard.
comments Joey Logano.
Addressing the situation, Logano indirectly suggests that NASCAR should find a way to decrease the difference between cars in the first and second divisions. Otherwise, rookie drivers could face a daunting challenge in the Cup series, as they would be dealing with a significantly different car and little practice time while entering with high expectations.
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