
For the most part, the Cup Series driver roster has taken a ‘there is nothing to lose’ mentality in response to NASCAR’s decision to marginally increase the horsepower target on short tracks and road courses next season.
Currently, the Cup Series uses a 670HP tapered spacer and will increase it next year to 750HP. While the industry has made gains in recent years through the development of softer tires and targeted aerodynamic tweaks, the racing product on short tracks and road courses is objectively worse than it was with the previous generation cars.