NASCAR implements new wet-weather tire policy for Bristol

NASCAR has implemented a new wet-weather policy ahead of racing at Bristol Motor Speedway. Under the updated rules, officials will still determine if a race begins on wet-weather tires, but once the race is underway, crew chiefs will have the autonomy to choose between wet and slick tires during caution periods if the track becomes damp.

To maintain fairness, if NASCAR deems the pit road itself to be damp, caution-flag pit stops will be considered non-competitive, meaning cars that pit will rejoin the field behind those that remained on track. NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell stated that the change is an effort to listen to industry feedback and provide teams more freedom to improve the racing show.

The policy change arrives as the Bass Pro Shops Night Race faces a potential rain threat, with forecasts indicating a chance of showers and thunderstorms. This shift in strategy comes at a critical time in the championship standings, as Kyle Larson has closed the gap to within nine points of the Chase lead held by Denny Hamlin.