There’s a compelling argument to be made for the return of NASCAR’s championship race to the Homestead-Miami Speedway. The Speedway is a shining example of everything that’s admirable about intermediate NASCAR Cup Series racing.
If you were scrolling through social media during the race that Ryan Blaney dominated by almost nine seconds last Sunday, you might have thought otherwise. However, it’s crucial to remember that the loudest voices on social media platforms are not always representative of the majority. As the race progressed, the negativity increased, with many questioning why Homestead-Miami should be the championship host.
Despite some dissenting voices, the majority seem to favor Homestead-Miami. The Speedway’s appeal was on full display last Sunday, prompting discussions about the possibility of it hosting the championship weekend once more. It’s worth noting that all three races were captivating, but it was the Cup Series race that truly stood out.
Homestead-Miami presents a visual spectacle like no other. There’s no one preferred lane around the Speedway. If it weren’t for some electrical issues, Corey Heim could have surpassed Kyle Larson with his impressive speed on the track’s lower side.
It’s also a track that rewards those drivers who have the skill to maneuver their car right against the wall. This aspect adds to the Speedway’s allure, as spectators watch drivers engage in a mental battle with themselves and their race cars for three grueling hours.
Denny Hamlin, on his podcast, highlighted the remarkable skill of the drivers. He remarked, “People don’t appreciate how good the drivers really, really are and certainly, it is impressive when you look at it from the outside.”
To triumph at Homestead-Miami, one needs to master every element of motor racing. This includes driver skill, pit crew execution, and race team strategy. The race saw a variety of strategies, with some teams, like Larson’s and Hamlin’s, keeping their drivers on the track longer during a green flag pit cycle.
The shifting track conditions, starting from late afternoon, further add to the excitement and challenge. Martin Truex Jr. recalls arguing with his crew chief, Cole Pearn, during his 2017 championship about the car’s handling. Pearn, however, knew the track would alter as the race progressed and made adjustments accordingly. The result? Truex won the race and the title.
A race at Homestead-Miami is a spectacle that showcases the interplay of driver, team, speed, tire fall, and endurance. Kyle Larson, who won last Sunday’s race, described it as a testament to his team’s hard work.
In conclusion, Homestead-Miami offers a race that’s competitive and appeals to the purist. It’s the ideal candidate for a championship race, and there’s no reason not to love it.