NASCAR’s introduction of the short-track package last year harbored mixed feelings. Although the objective was to increase passing, opposite reactions flared up throughout the 2024 Cup races. An additional change was Goodyear’s new thicker-gage tires to facilitate lap-time fall-off. However, the Next Gen car’s stunted aerodynamics prevented Goodyear’s good intentions.

Denny Hamlin voiced his concerns about passing, especially after the Martinsville race. Yet one race escaped the Next Gen nightmare’s radar: Bristol. The reason was simple. Goodyear’s high-wear tires made for a thrilling, pass-filled race. Banking on that success, NASCAR introduced new tire rules for the All-Star race, and Hamlin is all praises for them.

Denny Hamlin is pinning his hopes on NWS

NASCAR’s All-Star race always had a penchant for creativity since its 1985 inception. Some unique ideas that flowered on this race track include racing under the lights, unique paint schemes, and double-file restarts. Now that the newly restored North Wilkesboro Speedway is hosting the race, a much-awaited innovation might be in the works.

A new twist in tires, courtesy of NASCAR and Goodyear, is set to animate All-Star racers. Drivers will get to choose among three tires: primary, option, and wet-weather. Yet our spotlight is on the second set. The option tires are softer with more grip and faster wear. According to Denny Hamlin, these may be the secret ingredient to greater passing.

After clinching his Dover win, Denny Hamlin dissected the passing situation on his podcast. He initially laid down how crucial varying speeds are for passing. “One point FOX put on their pylon, the lap times from the top 20. And everyone was running a low 24, between a 0 and a 20. I can’t emphasize this enough: if everyone runs the same speed, you’re not going to pass. You have to have variations in speed between the cars.”

Being the 2015 All-Star Race winner, Denny Hamlin passed his positive verdict on NASCAR’s efforts at NWS. “That’s what they’re trying at North Wilkesboro, in the All-Star race, is a tire to create varying lap times. Whoever saves their tires may be running a 23-50, and whoever’s struggling and worn out their tires will be running a 24-50. That will create tons of passing and opportunities.” 

Hamlin also emphasized how the tire scenario would ease the challenge at the All-Star race. “North Wilkesboro is going to be a huge challenge… It would be an aerodynamic race, just like a follow-the-leader type of race. But with this alternate tire, maybe people will choose knowing there’s a short run coming.”

Besides Denny Hamlin’s positive reviews, Stewart-Haas Racing’s rookie driver also looks forward to the All-Star race’s unique tire set-up.

Berry focuses on the ‘aggressive’ aspect

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When NASCAR announced its All-Star race tire policy, Goodyear’s director explained the reasons. Greg Stucker said they were working hard on their short-track tire package and wanted to evaluate something more ‘aggressive’. He also pointed out that the All-Star Race, being a non-point setting, is a perfect environment for this experiment.

Tagging along with Stucker’s views, Josh Berry said he fully supports the new tire game. “I’ve heard some rumors flying around a little bit about trying some different compounds,” Berry told the press before NASCAR announced the format. “I think those are all great ideas. I think (NASCAR) needs to swing for it.” He also added, “I think they need to get aggressive with it. I think the All-Star Race is gonna be a good opportunity to do that.”

The All-Star Race will flag off on 20th May, following a round of practice and qualifying. We are waiting to see a replay of the Bristol Thrill at NWS.