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The next elimination race is upon us.
This Sunday, the Cup Series will take to the Charlotte Motor Speedway Road Course for the Round of 12 finale, resulting in four drivers having their championship aspirations come to an end.
Racers will face a distinct challenge at the North Carolina circuit, known as the “Roval” due to its unique combination of the infield road course and the traditional oval of Charlotte. Additionally, the track has introduced some modifications to its 17-turn configuration for 2024, which are sure to influence the race outcome.
So, who will be competing in Charlotte? What’s the lineup for TV and streaming? Which drivers might be in contention for the victory? Here’s a comprehensive guide for the 2024 Bank of America ROVAL 400:
When is the NASCAR race at the Charlotte Roval?
The Bank of America ROVAL 400 is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 13, at 2:30 p.m. ET.
Prior to the race, there will be practice and qualifying sessions. The 38 drivers will be divided into two groups (more information here), with each group set for 20 minutes of practice.
Following practice, the drivers will enter a two-round qualifying format. Here’s the breakdown:
- The 38 competitors will continue to be divided into their respective groups.
- First round: Each group will have 15 minutes to complete as many laps as they wish.
- The five quickest drivers from each group will progress to the second round. Positions 11 through 38 will be assigned based on the first round speeds.
- Second round: A 10-minute session for the 10 advancing drivers, who can also complete unlimited laps. The top 10 starting positions will be decided by the fastest single-lap times from this round.
What is the NASCAR TV schedule for this weekend?
Leigh Diffey will provide play-by-play commentary, joined by analysts Jeff Burton and Steve Letarte on NBC, with Marty Snider, Kim Coon, and Dave Burns reporting from pit road. Below is the complete TV and streaming schedule:
Saturday, Oct. 12 (USA Network streaming)
Sunday, Oct. 13 (NBC and streaming)
NASCAR Charlotte Roval entry list and drivers
A total of 38 drivers will race in Charlotte, including 34 full-time competitors and four additional participants.
Two regulars from the Xfinity Series will ascend to the Cup Series on Sunday, with road course specialists A.J. Allmendinger and Shane van Gisbergen representing Kaulig Racing. Additionally, part-timers Kaz Grala for Rick Ware Racing and Josh Bilicki for MBM Motorsports will also take to the track.
Here’s the complete entry list for Charlotte:</“`html
Predictions and Favorites for the NASCAR Charlotte Roval
The Roval has seen five distinct winners over six races, yet a select few drivers consistently excel in these competitions.
Chase Elliott stands out as the sole two-time victor, boasting an impressive 8.2 average finish. He has led a remarkable 109 laps and achieved a driver rating of 111.2 across six starts. Although winless in his last three outings, he has nonetheless managed to win a stage in two of those events.
Following Elliott, the next four playoff contenders with the best average finishes at the Roval are Bowman (6.4), Reddick (7.0), Logano (8.7), and Blaney (10.2). Bowman has consistently placed in the top-10 during all five of his races, while Reddick has been impactful, leading over 20 laps in each of his last two races.
A potential challenge in selecting a winning driver may stem from strategies in the
Among the 38 drivers competing at the Charlotte Roval, several are previous winners, but only one has secured multiple victories.
Elliott stands out with consecutive wins in 2019 and 2020, establishing himself as the most successful driver at this venue. Blaney triumphed in the inaugural race in 2018, while Larson (2021), Bell (2022), and Allmendinger (2023) also adorned the winner’s list.
NASCAR Playoff Standings and Clinching Scenarios for Charlotte
As Chastain and Stenhouse claimed victory in the first two races of the Round of 12, no playoff drivers automatically moved forward to the Round of 8 via a win. Byron, however, has accumulated enough points to secure his advancement, leaving the remaining 11 drivers to contend for the final seven qualifying positions.
You can find a complete overview of the NASCAR playoff structure right here.
Here are the playoff standings leading into Charlotte, with the bottom four poised for elimination unless they either win the race or accrue enough points to break into the top eight:
Playoff standings entering Charlotte
Regardless of the actions of others, these drivers hold the opportunity to automatically clinch a spot in the Round of 8 with the following finishes or point totals:
- Bell: 26th place or 11 points
- Larson: 21st place or 16 points
- Hamlin: 38 points
- Bowman: 42 points
- Blaney: 43 points
- Reddick: 54 points
- Elliott, Logano, Suarez, Cindric, and Briscoe: Cannot automatically clinch without a win
2024 Bank of America ROVAL 400: Playoff Drama Unfolds at Charlotte Motor Speedway
Overview of the 2024 Bank of America ROVAL 400
The 2024 Bank of America ROVAL 400 promises to be a thrilling showdown as NASCAR’s playoff drama intensifies at the iconic Charlotte Motor Speedway. This unique race combines the challenges of an oval and a road course, creating a distinct atmosphere that tests every driver’s skill and strategy.
The ROVAL: A Unique Challenge
The ROVAL, or Road Course Oval, is a 17-turn, 2.28-mile layout that intricately blends high-speed banking with tight corners. This track design is particularly demanding, requiring drivers to adapt quickly between different driving styles. Key features include:
- Complex Turns: The combination of sharp turns and long straights creates opportunities for overtaking and risky maneuvers.
- Elevation Changes: Drivers must navigate elevation changes that affect braking and acceleration, adding to the complexity of the race.
- Safety Zones: The layout includes areas designed for driver safety, but navigating these can still prove challenging during a high-stakes race.
Playoff Standings and Implications
The ROVAL 400 is critical in determining which drivers advance in the playoffs. As the third race in the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs, every point counts. Here’s a look at some key standings and implications leading up to the race:
| Driver | Current Standings | Playoff Points |
|---|---|---|
| Denny Hamlin | 1st | 3000 |
| Chase Elliott | 2nd | 2995 |
| Kyle Larson | 3rd | 2990 |
| Joey Logano | 4th | 2985 |
Key Drivers to Watch
As the playoffs unfold, several drivers stand out as key competitors for the 2024 Bank of America ROVAL 400:
- Denny Hamlin: Consistently performing at a high level, Hamlin has the momentum needed to secure his spot in the next round.
- Chase Elliott: A fan favorite and previous winner at the ROVAL, Elliott’s experience on this track could be invaluable.
- Kyle Larson: Known for his road course skills, Larson’s aggressive driving style will be crucial in a tight race.
- Joey Logano: With a history of strong performances, Logano is always a contender in critical playoff races.
Race Strategies and Team Dynamics
In a race as unpredictable as the ROVAL 400, strategy plays a pivotal role. Teams must consider various factors including:
- Tire Management: Drivers will need to balance speed with tire wear, especially on the combination of asphalt and concrete surfaces.
- Fuel Strategy: Managing fuel consumption throughout the race can impact pit stop timing and overall performance.
- Track Position: Gaining and maintaining track position can be crucial, especially in a race where overtaking opportunities are limited.
Fan Experience at Charlotte Motor Speedway
For fans attending the 2024 Bank of America ROVAL 400, Charlotte Motor Speedway offers an exciting atmosphere both on and off the track. Highlights include:
- Fan Zones: Interactive fan zones provide opportunities for autographs, driver meet-and-greets, and engaging activities for all ages.
- Food and Merchandise: A wide array of food options and NASCAR merchandise are available to enhance the race day experience.
- Live Entertainment: Pre-race entertainment often features live music and performances, making for a festive atmosphere.
Historical Context of the ROVAL 400
Since its introduction in 2018, the ROVAL has become a staple of the NASCAR Cup Series. Its unique design and competitive nature have led to thrilling finishes. Notable past winners include:
- Chase Elliott: Winner in 2019 and 2020, showcasing his road course prowess.
- Kyle Larson: Secured victory in 2021, demonstrating his skill on a challenging layout.
Practical Tips for Attending the Race
If you’re planning to attend the 2024 Bank of America ROVAL 400, here are some tips to make your experience enjoyable:
- Arrive Early: To avoid traffic and secure good parking, arrive at least a few hours before the race.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day, especially if it’s a warm race day.
- Plan for Weather: Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately; rain gear may be necessary.
Conclusion
The 2024 Bank of America ROVAL 400 is set to be an electrifying event in the NASCAR calendar. With playoff implications, the unique ROVAL layout, and the passionate fan base at Charlotte Motor Speedway, this race will undoubtedly deliver memorable moments and intense competition. Make sure to tune in or attend and witness the playoff drama unfold!
