Chad Knaus has proposed a viable solution to improve short-track racing. Following the disappointing races at Bristol and Martinsville, many individuals in the NASCAR community have been calling for changes. The lack of excitement has given those who were already critical of the current direction of the sport an even stronger voice.
Now, the former crew chief, recently inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, has shared his thoughts on how to address the issue with the cars. He believes that reducing downforce each week is not the right approach. While Knaus acknowledges that his suggestion may not be the most popular, his extensive experience and seven championships with Jimmie Johnson lend credibility to his viewpoint. If NASCAR is unwilling to increase horsepower and Goodyear is uninterested in tires with more wear, this alternative path could be the solution.
The restrictions imposed by NASCAR on car modifications have contributed to the lack of variation in performance among teams. Knaus proposes that NASCAR increase downforce and allow teams to make adjustments to their cars, which would create differences in performance.
According to Knaus, “My suggestion would be to add more downforce to the cars, allow the teams to work on them, and let them race… This would introduce some variation in vehicle performance.”
NASCAR must take action to improve short-track racing, as it is a desire shared by everyone in the racing community. The delays in decision-making and potential adjustments reflect poorly on the sport, both from a sporting and marketing perspective.