NASCAR, in a approach, is taking notes from F1’s outdated playbook. The American inventory automobile sequence just lately renewed its long-standing partnership with Comcast, and as a part of the brand new deal, the sanctioning physique is introducing the ‘Xfinity Quickest Lap’ level.
Because it stands, the motive force and workforce who secures the quickest race lap throughout any given points-paying race will likely be awarded the “bonus level.” The rule spans throughout all three nationwide divisions and will present some further drama through the vital playoff races the place a single level is typically the distinction in advancing ahead or going through sure elimination. It’ll additionally change the way in which some rivals strategy the superspeedway races — the place a mega-draft on the proper second is all one must lock down the quickest lap.
Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota, Tyler Reddick, 23XI Racing Toyota, Chase Elliott, Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet
Photograph by: Sean Gardner / Getty Photos
The introduction of a bonus level for a quickest lap is reminiscent Method 1’s quickest lap level system (which the sequence discontinued going into the 2025 season). However in F1, the purpose was not given to a non-points scorer in the event that they earned the quickest lap. NASCAR has carried out no such boundaries, opening it up for any driver who’s eligible for the championship to safe the quickest lap bonus. The one notable ‘guidelines’ are as follows: Within the case of a tie, the motive force who completed the race in a better place will likely be awarded the bonus level; and Championship 4 drivers will not be awarded the bonus level in the event that they earn the Xfinity Quickest Lap within the title-decider, which is smart as they are not eligible for stage factors both.
For F1, the quickest lap bonus level created controversial moments, comparable to when drivers who have been utterly out of competition would take an additional cease simply to disclaim a rival the bonus level, usually with the purpose of serving to their very own teammate. This might definitely occur in NASCAR as nicely with teammates and producer allies paying shut consideration to it through the postseason.
If such a rule had existed final 12 months in NASCAR, Kyle Larson, who had the quickest lap in 5 races — greater than every other driver that season — might have gained the common season title. Even two of these further 5 factors would have been the distinction, as he misplaced to Tyler Reddick by a single level.
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