Kevin Harvick Reflects on NASCAR Cup Series Race at Talladega
Kevin Harvick observed the NASCAR Cup Series as they entered the Round of 8 at Talladega. Following a thrilling victory by Chase Briscoe, the former champion shared his thoughts on how the race compared to the tradition of superspeedway events.
Race Analysis
During his segment on Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour, Harvick discussed the race dynamics from Sunday. While he commended the exciting finish, he expressed dissatisfaction with how fuel strategies influenced the race’s early phases in Alabama.
Mixed Feelings About Fuel Strategy
“It was what we expected,” Harvick noted. “If I had tuned in with 25 laps to go, I’d have thought, ‘What a great race!’ But the fuel mileage strategies in the beginning changed that experience.” He emphasized the exciting finish but acknowledged the role of strategy leading up to that point.
Impact of Strategy on the Finish
Harvick pointed out that Kyle Larson’s fuel issues at the race’s conclusion allowed for Briscoe to make a decisive move and secure a win, demonstrating the impact of strategic driving. “It was simply an incredible finish,” he declared.
Need for Changes in Superspeedway Racing
While he praised the final laps, Harvick believes NASCAR needs to reevaluate superspeedway racing. He questioned whether changes to stage breaks might reduce the mid-race lulls dominated by fuel strategies. “What can we do to eliminate those lulls?” he asked, emphasizing the need for continual evolution in the rules.
Concerns About Aggressive Racing
Discussing the intensity of pack racing, Harvick related it to the frequent crashes experienced during late race stages. He explained that drivers pushing aggressively often lead to incidents, which can be triggered by momentum shifts that are beyond a driver’s control.
Looking Ahead to Future Races
Overall, Harvick’s observations highlight the challenges NASCAR faces at major tracks. The 2014 champion is seeking a way to maintain the excitement of superspeedway racing while adapting to evolving dynamics in the sport, acknowledging that the current system is far from ideal.