NASCAR Approves Modifications to Qualifying Format

NASCAR has made modifications in the qualifying process effective immediately.

A group qualifying format was released at Phoenix International Raceway and through continued evaluation, officials have decided to make the following changes during qualifying including the breaks:NASCAR notified its teams this afternoon that effective immediately the following modifications apply to all elements of its national series qualifying including the breaks:

-One cool down unit connected through either the left side or right side hood flap/cowl flap is allowed to cool the engine;

-The hood must continue to remain closed;

-Plugging in the generator will not be allowed;

-Two crew members will be allowed over the wall to support the car and driver;

-No cool down laps will be permitted

“The qualifying is new to all of us and as we have said over the past several weeks, we are looking at it from all aspects,” said Robin Pemberton, vice president of competition and racing development. “Following discussions, both internally and with others in the garage area, we moved quickly to make a few revisions that will be effective starting with our two national series events at Bristol Motor Speedway this weekend. We believe this will only enhance and improve what has demonstrated to be an exciting form of qualifying for our fans, competitors and others involved with the sport. Moving forward we will continue to look at it and address anything else that we may need to as the season unfolds.”