NASCAR makes rule change for Atlanta Motor Speedway pit road speeds
Ahead of the Quaker State 400, NASCAR has made changes to the rules for Atlanta Motor Speedway on pit road. If you remember, Atlanta has changed to superspeedway-type racing. Pit road entry has also extended to about Turn 3. So, there are some rule changes to ensure driver safety.
NASCAR drivers in Atlanta are going to have to pay attention to the new rules as teams also prepare for new safety changes. Sections 1 and 2, while under a green flag will have a speed limit of 90 MPH. These are the sections located in Turns 3 and 4.
The reason for that speed entering the pit road entryway is to keep cars from getting wrecked by cars not coming off the track to pit road or others attempting to make pit road. It also helps cars pitting under green to not lose as many spots in the process.
While under a green flag, Sections 3 through 18 are going to be limited at 45 MPH. This is your usual pit road speed that you see at most tracks. If the race is under a yellow flag, then all sections will be limited to 45 MPH.
NASCAR made the Atlanta change ahead of this weekend’s Quaker State 400.
With this rule change, I’m sure we will see one or two drivers make a mistake. Speeding on pit road will result in a pass-through penalty. Personally, I think Denny Hamlin and Kyle Busch are the most likely perpetrators.
NASCAR heads to Atlanta for Quaker State 400
Since the change to superspeedway-style racing, NASCAR in Atlanta has been really fun. This race track produces some exciting races now and this weekend should be no different. With just eight races left until the playoffs, there are limited opportunities for drivers to win and get into the postseason.
Drivers like Chase Elliott are going to be desperate for a win. Despite landing top-5 finishes in the last few races, Elliott is still not in the playoffs. He has closed the gap in the last few weeks, but there is a long way to go for Elliott and his team.
Meanwhile, it might be a race where we see previous winners extend their leads. William Byron could win this race. Perhaps this is when Kyle Busch takes another checkered flag. Or perhaps, The Closer, Kevin Harvick will be the one in Victory Lane just like he was all those years ago in the 29 car.
NASCAR is taking over Atlanta this weekend and we are in store for another thrilling race. Keep an eye on pit road, we could see some issues there as drivers get used to the new rule change.