Chad Knaus proposed a viable solution to improve races on short tracks. After disappointing races at Bristol and Martinsville, many people in the NASCAR community have been calling for changes. The lack of excitement has given even louder voice to those who were already critical of the current direction of the sport.
Now, the former crew chief, recently inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, shared his thoughts on how to address the issue with the cars. He believes that reducing aerodynamic pressure every week is not the right approach. Although Knaus acknowledges that his suggestion may not be the most popular, his vast experience and seven championships with Jimmie Johnson lend credibility to his point of view. If NASCAR is not willing to increase the power of the cars and Goodyear is not interested in tires with more wear, this alternative path may be the solution.
The restrictions imposed by NASCAR on car modifications have contributed to the lack of variation in performance between teams. Knaus proposes that NASCAR increase aerodynamic pressure and allow teams to make adjustments to their cars, which would create differences in performance.
According to Knaus, “My suggestion would be to increase the aerodynamic pressure of the cars, allow teams to work on them, and let them race… This would introduce some variation in vehicle performance.”
NASCAR must take steps to improve races on short tracks, as it is a shared desire by everyone in the racing community. Delays in decision-making and possible adjustments reflect negatively on the sport, both from a sporting and marketing perspective.
