Logano Secures Phoenix Pole as 750 HP & Tire Wear Shake Up NASCAR Practice
PHOENIX – The return to Phoenix Raceway for the NASCAR Cup Series brought with it a different feel for drivers, marked by tire issues and a noticeable increase in horsepower. Joey Logano of Team Penske secured the pole position, but the path to the top wasn’t without its challenges, as several drivers encountered tire failures during practice sessions on .
The issues weren’t attributed to a problem with Goodyear tires themselves, but rather to teams pushing the limits by running extremely low tire pressures in pursuit of speed with the new 750 horsepower engines – an increase from the 670 used in the previous season. This adjustment has fundamentally altered the dynamics of the track, forcing teams to recalibrate their strategies and find the delicate balance between speed and durability.
“I would say the power is definitely in effect,” Logano stated after securing the pole. “It’s not huge but it’s directionally that way. Any time you talk to any driver, they’re going to say put more horsepower in it, but the fact it seems like (tire) fall off is pretty high and cars are searching around has to go into the equation too right?”
Logano explained that the increased horsepower and resulting tire wear are creating a more dynamic racing environment. “We’re on the brakes more and on the gas a little less, but spinning the (tires) more, and it’s just easier to wear them out. It just promotes a wider track and better racing. So whether it comes from the tire wear or the horsepower, it all goes together. It’s all a package.”
The practice sessions were anything but smooth. RFK Racing teammates Chris Buescher and Brad Keselowski both experienced right front tire issues. Buescher managed to nurse his car back to the pit, but Keselowski’s incident was more severe, resulting in contact with the wall and necessitating the use of a backup car, effectively ending his qualifying run.
Keselowski, speaking on the Amazon Prime broadcast, expressed his surprise. “It’s really surprising,” he said. “We saw that Chris had an issue so we pumped it up full of air and drove it slow to build some air and not abuse it … not sure why it would blow.”
Chase Briscoe also acknowledged the impact of the increased horsepower. “I’ll be the first to admit, I didn’t think we would feel the difference in power,” Briscoe said on Prime. “But I’ll be the first to admit, it feels like there is way more than 750 or whatever it is. This is the most slick and wore out we’ve been here. It’s going to be fun tomorrow for sure.”
Tyler Reddick also had a moment during practice, spinning out while pushing the limits of his Jordan Brand Toyota. “Was just trying to get the balance on our Jordan Brand Toyota a little bit closer,” Reddick explained on Prime. “Practice is one of those moments where you can explore and try things but also impact your weekend pretty severely. Just pushed too far, and that’s okay.”
The introduction of Goodyear’s option tire at Phoenix last year, and its continued use, has been a significant factor in the changing dynamics. Logano highlighted the tire’s improved performance and the challenges it presents. “There’s no doubt Goodyear’s done an incredible job at bringing in a tire that actually falls off because for years here, you remember, gosh, you’d run a whole run and be like three tenths, four tenths slower than what you started (and) now you’re seconds off, right?”
He continued, “So we’ve come a long, long ways. Goodyear’s done the biggest amount but the engine is directionally better. We have to be open for more, right, just because we’re all saying this is good. It’s never enough from a driver standpoint but this is going to be a great race tomorrow, one of our better races, in my opinion.”
The combination of the increased horsepower and the option tire has created a scenario where tire management and strategic pit stops will be crucial. The practice sessions demonstrated the potential for unpredictable outcomes, as drivers grapple with the challenges of maximizing speed while preserving tire life. The race promises to be a compelling test of skill, strategy, and adaptability for all involved.
The changes at Phoenix are part of a broader trend in NASCAR, as the sport continues to evolve and explore new ways to enhance competition and excitement. The introduction of the option tire, and now the increase in horsepower, represent a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the track, and the results are already being felt by drivers and teams alike.