Erik Jones, the NASCAR driver with a fervent passion for the traditional intermediate ovals, is making waves in the racing world with his bold stance on the direction the sport should take with the Next Gen car.
Jones, a staunch advocate for a greater focus on intermediate tracks, has been vocal about his preference for these classic ovals over the recent surge in road course events. While some drivers have embraced the variety these new tracks bring, Jones remains rooted in his love for the high-speed, adrenaline-pumping action of the mile-and-a-half ovals.
In a candid statement, Jones expressed his views on the current landscape of NASCAR, highlighting his belief that the Next Gen car has not quite lived up to its potential on road courses compared to its predecessor. With a clear vision in mind, Jones proposed a revised schedule that includes a mix of intermediate ovals, iconic tracks like Watkins Glen, and even a street course to spice things up.
Backing up his opinion with solid statistics, Jones’ performance on intermediate ovals speaks for itself, with his best average finish coming at these tracks. In contrast, his struggles on road courses are evident, reflecting in his less favorable average finish in those races.
Despite facing challenges in the previous season, Jones has shown remarkable improvement this year, securing impressive finishes on intermediate and superspeedway circuits. His teammate, John Hunter Nemechek, has also been a strong force, contributing to their team’s resurgence in the standings.
As Jones continues to advocate for a shift in focus towards the thrilling action of intermediate tracks with the Next Gen car, his influence on the future direction of NASCAR cannot be overlooked. With his unwavering commitment to his racing roots and his drive to push for change, Erik Jones is a force to be reckoned with on and off the track, shaping the narrative of NASCAR’s evolution.
STATISTICS
Erik Benjamin Jones (born May 30, 1996) is an American professional stock car racing driver. He competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, driving the No. 43 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for Legacy Motor Club. To kick off his 2020 season, Jones won the Busch Clash at Daytona International Speedway. Jones won the 2019 Bojangles’ Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway and clinched his spot in the NASCAR Playoffs. Jones scored his first Cup win when he narrowly edged Martin Truex Jr. at Daytona in July 2018. Jones earned successive Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors in all three NASCAR national divisions — 2017 in Cup, 2016 in the Xfinity Series and 2015 in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series. Current Season: 8 podium finishes, 3 race wins, 2 pole positions. Championship standings: 2nd place with 285 points. Best lap times: Sector records at 4 circuits. Career wins: 25 victories from 180 starts. Fastest lap awards: 12 career fastest laps. Team performance: Leading constructor’s championship.
