By Caleb Whisler, Staff Writer
On Wednesday evening, NASCAR announced changes to the Monster Energy All-Star Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway next month.
The race will be broken into four stages. The first stage will be 30 laps, the second and third stage will be 20 laps, and the final stage will be 10 laps. Normal NASCAR stage break procedures are in effect and NASCAR overtime is available for all three segments.
For the Monster Energy Open, the first two stages will be 20 laps with a final stage of 10 laps. Each ctage winner will advance into the main show.
NASCAR also announced that they will test a similar aero package the NASCAR XFINITY Series used at Indianapolis in 2017 and will be used this year at Michigan and Pocono during their June events.
That package included the use of aero ducts—which moved air out of the front wheel wells to create a larger wake—which increased the draft envelope to create closer racing. A restrictor plate was used to slow the field down and prevent the leader from running away from the field. XFINITY teams also used a taller rear spoiler.
Cup teams will have a six-inch high spoiler with two 12-inch ears, a restrictor plate, aero ducts and the 2014 splitter will be used.
“NASCAR is committed to innovation and will always work to improve the racing product for every series and venue,” said Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR executive vice president and chief racing development officer. “The yearly Monster Energy NASCAR All-Star Race is an opportunity to see your favorite drivers compete under a unique and exciting format and rules package. The positive feedback following last year’s Xfinity Series race at Indianapolis gave us the foundation to implement this dynamic package for the All-Star Race. We believe the hard work of the entire industry will provide the best race for our passionate fans.”
The field for the 2018 Monster Energy NASCAR All-Star Race will include Monster Energy Series race winners in 2017 and 2018; former all-star race winners who are competing full-time; Monster Energy Series champions who are competing full-time; the winner of each of the three stages of the Monster Energy Open; and the winner of the 2018 Fan Vote.
These are the current eligible drivers: Ryan Blaney, Clint Bowyer, Kurt Busch, Kyle Busch, Austin Dillon, Denny Hamlin, Kevin Harvick, Jimmie Johnson, Kasey Kahne, Matt Kenseth, Brad Keselowski, Kyle Larson, Joey Logano, Jamie McMurray, Ryan Newman, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Martin Truex Jr.