NASCAR used to have single-car runs for qualifying in the Cup Series, but that changed when the sport decided to try group qualifying. It worked on some tracks but not as well for others. Then, COVID-19 entered the scene and changed everything. Qualifying returned in 2022 with a twist, and the current format is now receiving another update heading into 2024.
On Tuesday afternoon, NASCAR announced that Group A will determine the outside row for Rows 6-20, and Group B will determine the inside row for Rows 6-20 in the Cup Series. This is a drastic change after the sport determined positions 11-40 by qualifying speed, regardless of the group, over the last two seasons.
Overall, this positive change creates a fairer advantage for the starting lineup. At some race tracks, a specific group had a major advantage, which affected the starting order for the event. It may not be the favorite way of determining the starting lineup for race fans; however, NASCAR is making changes to make the playing field more even.
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