NASCAR drivers have publicly criticized some of the recent changes at the Charlotte Roval circuit, particularly targeting the newly introduced turtle curbing.
Their concerns note the impact these modifications have on both driver safety and vehicle performance. These drivers, among them seasoned veterans like Martin Truex Jr. and Kyle Busch, have voiced their grievances in no uncertain terms, pointing out the physical strains and potential risks posed by the revised track design.
The Charlotte Roval, which combines elements of a road course and an oval, has seen significant changes ahead of this weekend. A crucial part of this update is the new turtle curbing designed to prevent shortcutting and clearly define corners.
Intended to be a challenging addition, these curbs instead have sparked serious safety concerns. The drivers claim that navigating them feels like enduring a concussion with each lap. Truex Jr., voicing his displeasure, noted to FOX Sports reporter Bob Pockrass:
A general view of racing during the NASCAR Xfinity Drive for the Cure 250 presented by BCBS at Charlotte Motor Speedway on October 12, 2024 in Concord, North Carolina. Drivers raise safety concerns about changes made to Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images
“Feels like you get a concussion every lap basically if you hit them. So, yeah. Not much fun.”
Similarly, Kyle Busch supported these claims. He explained:
“It’s not overblowing it. It’s 1000% correct. I don’t know when I’ll see the data, probably not until Monday but it fuc… my head hurts.”
As drivers contended with these changes during practice and qualifying sessions, the physical demands became clear. The cars could be seen significantly lifting when hitting these curbs, raising risks of losing control or causing damage.
Despite acknowledging the drivers’ grievances, no immediate plans exist to alter the Roval for this season. However, the persistent dissatisfaction voiced by drivers like Busch and Truex Jr. could prompt future revisions.
The Roval race is the last race before the Cup Series Playoffs Round of 8. Starting from the pole position is Shane Van Gisbergen who will be closely followed by Tyler Reddick and AJ Allmendinger who qualified in second and third position, respectively.
NASCAR Cup Series: Bank of America ROVAL 400 Qualifying Results
- Shane Van Gisbergen
- Tyler Reddick
- AJ Allmendinger
- Joey Logano
- Austin Cindric
- Kyle Larson
- Chase Elliott
- Brad Keselowski
- Bubba Wallace
- William Byron
- Kyle Busch
- Christopher Bell
- Daniel Suárez
- Ryan Blaney
- Todd Gilliland
- Ross Chastain
- Alex Bowman
- Denny Hamlin
- Ty Gibbs
- Carson Hocevar
- Michael McDowell
- Austin Dillon
- Zane Smith
- Ricky Stenhouse Jr
- Chase Briscoe
- Harrison Burton
- Daniel Hemric
- Corey LaJoie
- Chris Buescher
- Martin Truex Jr
- Kaz Grala
- Noah Gragson
- Justin Haley
- Ryan Preece
- John H. Nemechek
- Josh Berry
- Erik Jones
- Josh Bilicki
