NASCAR released the 2024 schedules on Wednesday afternoon and there were some new developments that were not previously expected. Overall, it was a very positive day for NASCAR and one that featured a big step in the right direction after feedback from the fans, drivers, industry, and more over the last year.
A few changes on the 2024 schedule were already known, such as Indianapolis returning to the oval, two concrete races at Bristol, and the Cup Series debuting at Iowa on Father’s Day. However, there are some other changes that may not excite fans as much as those three. One of them is Atlanta following the Daytona 500.
The race track will be the second official race of the season, which means the 2024 schedule will start out with two superspeedway tracks. Quite frankly, this is a questionable call from a fan perspective but it should help elevate the ratings as those who watched Daytona will come back expecting something similar. From a business perspective, it’s a great move.
The 2024 @NASCAR Cup Series schedule is here! 👇 pic.twitter.com/VmYtlzxJw9
— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) October 4, 2023
Atlanta will also host the opening race of the NASCAR playoffs, which means there are two superspeedway tracks in the 10-race stretch. This is not a bad decision as the race track has been exciting for several years since the repave. Also, Watkins Glen will join the playoffs and become the second road course in the stretch by replacing Texas.
The addition of Atlanta is solid and on the surface, Watkins Glen is really good. However, the Charlotte ROVAL has run its course so it would have been better if Watkins Glen was the only road course event. Still, it should provide entertainment as the playoffs have several tracks that will test a driver’s abilities.
Overall, the schedule has gone in a very positive direction. The ideas of continuing the Charlotte ROVAL and the second Daytona race moving to the 25th event of the season because of the Olympics are negatives. Hopefully, they aren’t long-term. NASCAR added more wins than losses, which should be celebrated during the 2024 season.
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