Following Denny Hamlin’s 56th career victory at the challenging Darlington Raceway, the NASCAR Cup Series now travels to the mountains of Tennessee for the Food City 500 in Bristol. Known for its tire-wearing surface, the upcoming race at Bristol promises to be as demanding as the previous one. Ken Schrader, a former driver, once humorously suggested changing tires frequently at both Darlington and Rockingham Speedway, which are notorious for their abrasive tracks. Managing tire wear will be crucial for drivers aiming to clinch a win, as demonstrated by the recent race where William Byron’s pit strategy error cost him victory. Despite challenges such as passing difficulties in dirty air and unexpected incidents like Kyle Larson’s spin, Hamlin emerged victorious due to a combination of talent and a swift pit crew. The upcoming race at Bristol presents a new set of challenges, as tire management will be key on the high-banked, half-mile track. In a previous race at Bristol, experienced drivers like Hamlin, Martin Truex Jr., and Brad Keselowski excelled in maintaining tire grip, showcasing their expertise in short-track racing. The competition featured numerous lead changes and passes, setting records for the series. Alex Bowman secured pole position for the upcoming race, with Larson, Hamlin, and Blaney among the top qualifiers. As the race day approaches, the weather is expected to be cool, adding an element of unpredictability to the event. Larson, the defending champion at Bristol, looks to replicate his past success after dominating the track in the previous race.
“I am comfortable with the aggression and fast-paced style of that race,” he said. His team members will aim to find the right setup, car balance, and pit work for the No. 5 Chevrolet. Additionally, they will closely monitor the condition of the tires during the race.
