What’s Happening?
Weeks before the Cup race in Phoenix, NASCAR announced a new, low-downforce aero package for short tracks and road courses. The package features a two inch spoiler and removed four underbody strakes. After seeing the announcement, many fans and drivers were hopeful the changes improved the racing.
Now that the modifications have hit the track in Phoenix, let’s take a look at the fan reaction.
What You Need to Know:
- As NASCAR works to continually advance their on-track racing product, the short track package was the first to be adjusted.
- The adjustments debuted at Phoenix with significant anticipation.
- Fans love talking about how NASCAR can do things better. Alongside drivers, the industry expressed excitement over new challenges and hope for even better racing.
Around the Garage
Bob Pockrass captured Blaney’s comments on the package.
Ryan Blaney said it is hard to tell how the short track package will perform at other short tracks such as Richmond and Martinsville next month. pic.twitter.com/RkkRaefsA5
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) March 12, 2023
Stewart-Haas Racing mechanic Brian Murphy, a popular technical commenter, gave his perspective post-race.
For those of you disappointed in todays product, it was a great step forward for the platform and series.
— Brian Murphy (@Brian_Murphy_) March 12, 2023
The expectations are extremely high now days. Higher than realistically achievable. Remember, you’re watching motorsport. Sport. Not a television sitcom.
In the Stands
Around the garage, insiders had a wait-and-see approach. Darrian Gilliam had a similar perspective.
If this package doesn’t improve Martinsville then we start worrying. #NASCAR75
— Darian Gilliam (@BlackFlagMatter) March 12, 2023
His replies, however, were quicker to judge.



Some thought it was the track that was holding back the action. Eric didn’t think the difference would be large enough for TV viewers to observe.

David doesn’t think anything could save the Next Gen car at this point.

Racer and fan Mike Skinner gave his comments.
They sure did but when I put my race fan hat on, although the finish was exciting, I think the racing was better with the downforce that’s just my opinion https://t.co/c4YMVTKGDN
— Mike Skinner (@MSTheGunslinger) March 12, 2023
Brett doesn’t want to blame the package or the track, saying the cars and drivers are just so closely matched.
That was honestly a decent race. I should add that that does not factor the final cautions in. It was clear that passing was possible if you had a fast enough car.
— Brett (@22fan4ever) March 12, 2023
IMO the biggest problem isn't with the package, it's that everybody is too equal. Not enough difference to pass.
At the track, Zach Vortex is encouraged by the product.
I’m sure some people at home watching are complaining about this being boring. I can tell you here at the track the racing is excellent. This is way better than last years package.
— Zach Vortex (@Zach_Vortex) March 12, 2023
Gotta remember, not passing doesn’t always mean YOU CANT PASS because of the car. HMS is just fast