NASCAR rule change for Daytona/Talladega (2021)

NASCAR reacts to Joey Logano’s crash with new rules for remaining superspeedway races

Back in April, Joey Logano was launched into the air at 200mph. The driver was running 3rd at the time. The crash took place on the final lap of the first stage.

Logano was sent backwards into turn three. The air lifted his car completely off the ground. The No. 22 driver landed upside down on the pavement.

“I am wondering when we are going to stop because this is dangerous doing what we are doing,” Logano said after exiting the infield care center following the crash.

He added, “I got a roll bar in my head. That is not okay.”

Related: Joey Logano suggests NASCAR rule changes after Talladega crash

New rules for Talladega/Daytona

After every major incident, NASCAR unloads a fleet of investigators. Two major superspeedway events remain in the 2021 season.

Officials have elected to make some changes from their findings:

– Previous, tapered spacer holes were 57/64 of an inch. Now, that will be reduced to 53/64 of an inch.

– Additionally, the rear wicker will be removed. That was designed to slow the cars down.

(NASCAR expects the drop in horsepower to result in about 7-10 mph less speed.)

– For Talladega and Daytona, a bar on the rear was listed as optional. Bar #5C is now required.

Related: NASCAR investigating Talladega crashes of Joey Logano, Derrick Lancaster

NASCAR Bar 5C
NASCAR Bar 5C (Photo: NASCAR Rule Book)

In Logano’s crash, the roll bar above his helmet attempted to collapse. Bar 5C adds additional support to the bar that’s just above the driver’s helmet.

NASCAR returns to Daytona International Speedway on August 28 for the regular season finale. Talladega Superspeedway hosts a playoff race on October 3.

These are the last two superspeedway events with the current car. In the 2022 Daytona 500, the NASCAR Next Gen car will make it’s debut. The new car is a spec chassis designed by the industry and it will be run identical from team to team.

Related: Joey Logano asks “When are we going to stop” after Talladega crash (Video)

Links

Joey Logano | NASCAR | Talladega Superspeedway | Daytona International Speedway

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