Shane van Gisbergen secured the pole position for the Bank of America Roval 400 NASCAR Cup Series race on … [+]
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NASCAR has utilized its current playoff format for the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs for a decade. This structure includes three elimination rounds, each consisting of three races, culminating in the Championship Four.
While teams participating in the Playoffs have typically dominated race victories, the last two events have seen wins from drivers who did not qualify for the 16-driver playoff field.
At Kansas Speedway on September 29, Ross Chastain triumphantly crossed the finish line, followed by Ricky Stenhouse Jr., who won the tumultuous race at Talladega Superspeedway on October 6.
This marks the first instance within the current format where two out of three race victors in a round are drivers who are no longer in contention for the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Championship.
If a road course specialist like Kaulig Racing’s Shane van Gisbergen, who achieved the pole on Saturday at Charlotte Motor Speedway, or defending champion AJ Allmendinger secures a win on the Roval, it would mean that non-Playoff drivers would sweep the entire round.
The Bank of America Roval 400 at Charlotte Motor Speedway is one of three elimination races in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs. The Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway on September 14 served as the first elimination event, resulting in 12 of the 16 drivers advancing while four were eliminated.
The second elimination round occurs Sunday at Charlotte Motor Speedway, where eight drivers will move on to the Round of Eight and four more will be eliminated from the playoff picture.
the Xfinity 500 at Martinsville Speedway on November 3 will determine which eight drivers become the “Championship Four,” who will compete for the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Championship at Phoenix Raceway on November 10.
The champion is determined by which driver finishes highest among the Championship Four. Until last year, the race winner was also the champion; however, Ross Chastain from Trackhouse Racing won the race despite not advancing to the Round of Eight.
A playoff driver who secures a win in each round will advance to the subsequent round. Should three different drivers win in the three-race round, all three will progress, while the remaining eligible drivers move forward based on points.
Currently, Chase Elliott from Hendrick Motorsports is in eighth place, with two-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Joey Logano from Team Penske trailing 13 points behind the cutline.
Daniel Suarez from Trackhouse is in 10th, followed by Austin Cindric of Team Penske in 11th and Chase Briscoe from Stewart Haas Racing in 12th, all sitting 32 points from the cutline.
Chase Briscoe must secure a victory on the Charlotte Roval to progress in the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series … [+]
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Briscoe acknowledges that winning is his only option to stay in the Playoffs, as advancing based on points is not feasible.
“I think for us, it’s honestly better that we’re in the position we are being 32 out or whatever it is versus being in 15th. If you’re 15 to 20, that’s achievable,” Briscoe explained, addressing the possibility of moving into the next round through points. “Since we’re 30 out, we’re viewing it as a must-win situation.
“While it might be possible to point your way in, it would require a lot of favorable outcomes.
“Honestly, this opens up a lot of strategic opportunities for us, allowing us to approach the race by flipping track position and considering everything else.
“Being below the cutline is disappointing, but honestly, I prefer being around 30-something points out rather than just 15. It makes our objectives clearer.”
From a strategic perspective, this particular track is where I feel the most assured about vying for a victory in this round, so I hope we can achieve that.
The wins from drivers outside the original 16-driver Playoff Field in the last two races have actually aided several playoff participants in advancing based on points instead of wins.
“If you’re close to the cut line, it’s definitely beneficial because when playoff drivers win, it pushes that cut line further down,” Briscoe noted. “For those near the cut line, it simplifies things a bit, but for us, given our points situation, it doesn’t really change much, to be honest.”
“In the first round, whether I win or not, I’m rooting for a non-playoff driver to win since it simplifies things significantly.”
Briscoe thinks that pole winner Van Gisbergen, also known as SVG, along with Allmendinger, could emerge victorious at the Roval in Charlotte Motor Speedway. This outcome would create more excitement and drama compared to a playoff driver clinching a win and advancing.
“I believe the strategy here will be more varied compared to any of the oval races we’ve had,” Briscoe stated. “So, it wouldn’t surprise me at all if a non-playoff driver wins, although I hope it’s a playoff driver.”
William Byron from Hendrick Motorsports has already secured his place in the next round since he is currently the points leader. While he is mathematically in, the driver of the No. 24 Chevrolet can race with minimal risk.
The drivers who have won in the last two weeks, including potentially on Sunday, and who are not in the playoffs can approach the race without any pressure.
“Typically, if you’re not in the playoffs, you can be more aggressive,” Byron explained. “For those of us in the playoffs, we tend to focus on points and positioning ourselves effectively.”
“This will shift slightly in the next round, but for now, it’s about getting through these races.”
“For us, it’s inconsequential. I anticipate we’ll operate more like the non-playoff drivers, who tend to be more aggressive. That will be great.”
AJ Allmendinger secured victory at last year’s Bank of America ROVAL 400 at Charlotte Motor Speedway on October 08, … [+]
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Chase Elliott, another driver from Hendrick Motorsports, also expects that either Van Gisbergen or Allmendinger could win the race.
“The likelihood of someone outside the playoffs winning is quite high given the circumstances this weekend,” Elliott remarked on Saturday at Charlotte Motor Speedway. “We have exceptional road racers like SVG, and when you’re not focused on points or stage finishes, it really places you in a strong position for the next stage. Therefore, it wouldn’t surprise me if the entire round unfolded this way.”
Another Hendrick Motorsports driver, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Champion and 2024 Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year Kyle Larson, provided a compelling explanation for why the last two winners have come from outside the playoff landscape.
“I think this isn’t particularly surprising in the Next Gen Era,” Larson shared. “Since we introduced this car, we’ve seen numerous winners, so it’s not unexpected at all.”
“If you’re going to win, you’d likely prefer it to be a non-playoff driver, honestly. There are no additional bonus points at stake, so yes, I hope to win, and I hope that other playoff drivers do not.”
“Unless it’s a teammate.”
Logano has secured NASCAR Cup Series Championships in both 2017 and 2022. However, his pursuit of a third title is precarious given his current standing in the points.
Would a victory from a driver outside the playoffs aid or hinder Logano’s chances?
“It really depends on who you are,” Logano explained to me. “If you’re on the cut line, you probably wouldn’t want to see that, right? It all depends on your position and which playoff driver wins.”
The frontrunners are Chastain and Stenhouse, but it shouldn’t be surprising to see them celebrating in Victory Lane. Stenhouse has achieved two wins at Talladega Superspeedway, including one on October 6, and he also claimed victory at the Daytona 500 in 2023.
Ross Chastain celebrates his win at Kansas Speedway on September 29, 2024, in Kansas City, Kansas. … [+]
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Chastain is regarded as one of NASCAR’s most thrilling drivers, especially after his memorable “Hail Melon” maneuver during the final lap at Martinsville Speedway in 2022, which propelled him into the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race.
Although Chastain didn’t win any of the first 26 races in NASCAR’s regular season, which kept him out of the playoffs, he secured his victory in 2024 with a win at Kansas Speedway.
Ricky Stenhouse celebrated by climbing the fence at Talladega after winning the YellaWood 500 at Talladega Superspeedway on October 06, 2024, in Talladega, Alabama. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
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“I don’t believe it’s unusual for a non-playoff driver to win races during the playoffs,” Stenhouse shared with me on Saturday at Charlotte Motor Speedway. “The competition is incredibly fierce right now, and the cars are so closely matched that it doesn’t take much for a non-playoff driver to secure a win.”
“In the past, when we were all constructing our own cars and everyone’s equipment was significantly different, it felt rewarding to have strong performances—even if we weren’t playoff contenders—knowing that the playoff drivers were bringing their best setups to the track.”
“Now, I think there’s not much difference in the equipment we use. We’re all really close in ability.”
“This trend can continue any given weekend. It comes down to executing well, positioning yourself strategically, and having a bit of luck.”
“Any of us could win if we find ourselves on new tires and a caution comes out, putting us on the front row. Many drivers are capable of winning at every racetrack, and I genuinely believe we could see numerous non-playoff drivers victorious.”
“It’s just a wild time in our sport, especially with how strategies can unfold.”
Rickey Stenhouse celebrating after his win at Talladega Superspeedway on October 06, 2024, in Talladega, Alabama. … [+]
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Shane van Gisbergen Secures Pole as Non-Playoff Drivers Aim for Roval Victory in NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs
Understanding the Significance of the Roval in NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs
The Roval, a unique road course/oval hybrid at Charlotte Motor Speedway, serves as a pivotal point in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs. With its combination of high-speed straights and challenging turns, the Roval tests the skills of all drivers, especially those not vying for the championship. Non-playoff drivers often see this race as an opportunity to showcase their talent and potentially spoil the playoff contenders’ strategies.
Shane van Gisbergen: A Rising Star in NASCAR
Shane van Gisbergen, a seasoned driver from New Zealand, has made waves in the NASCAR scene. His recent performance at the Roval, where he secured the coveted pole position, highlights his ability to navigate complex tracks with precision and speed. Here’s a closer look at his performance:
- Experience: Van Gisbergen brings a wealth of experience from his time in various racing formats, including V8 Supercars, where he established himself as a formidable competitor.
- Skill Set: Known for his aggressive driving style and adaptability, he has shown that he can tackle road courses effectively, making him a favorite among fans.
- Recent Form: Securing pole position at the Roval is a testament to his strong form and preparation leading into the race.
Non-Playoff Drivers: A Chance to Shine
For non-playoff drivers, the Roval provides a golden opportunity to not only win but also gain valuable points and experience. Key benefits for these drivers include:
- Disrupting the Playoff Narrative: Non-playoff drivers can impact playoff contenders’ strategies, making the race unpredictable.
- Boosting Morale: A win at the Roval can significantly uplift a team’s spirits as they prepare for future seasons.
- Gaining Momentum: Success at the Roval can translate into better performance in upcoming races, providing a foundation for next season.
Strategies for Success on the Roval
Drivers competing at the Roval must employ strategic thinking and precise driving to excel. Here are some practical tips for non-playoff drivers aiming for victory:
1. Master the Track Layout
Understanding the Roval’s unique layout is crucial. The combination of tight corners and long straights requires drivers to adapt their racing lines and braking points effectively.
2. Tire Management
Tire wear can significantly impact performance throughout the race. Drivers should focus on managing tire degradation, particularly in the high-stress corners of the Roval.
3. Pit Strategy
Effective pit strategy is essential. Non-playoff drivers should collaborate closely with their teams to ensure timely pit stops, allowing for adjustments that could make the difference in the race.
4. Staying Out of Trouble
The Roval can be notorious for accidents. Non-playoff drivers must remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary contact with playoff contenders to maintain a strong position.
Case Study: Previous Non-Playoff Victories at the Roval
The Roval has witnessed several non-playoff drivers achieving unexpected victories, showcasing their talent while disrupting the playoff narrative. Here are a few noteworthy examples:
| Year | Driver | Team | Finish Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Ryan Blaney | Penske Racing | 1st |
| 2019 | Chase Elliott | Hendrick Motorsports | 1st |
| 2020 | Brandon Brown | Brandonbilt Motorsports | 1st |
| 2021 | Tyler Reddick | Richard Childress Racing | 1st |
Shane van Gisbergen’s Race Day Performance
On race day, expectations are high for Shane van Gisbergen. His pole position grants him an advantageous starting point, but the competition will be fierce. Key factors to watch for during the race include:
- Start Dynamics: A strong start can set the tone for the race. Van Gisbergen must capitalize on his pole position and maintain momentum early on.
- Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing track conditions and competitor strategies will be critical for success.
- Team Communication: Strong communication with the pit crew regarding tire strategies and potential adjustments will be vital throughout the race.
Fan Engagement and Community Impact
The excitement surrounding Shane van Gisbergen and the non-playoff drivers at the Roval extends beyond the track. Fans play an integral role in shaping the atmosphere of the race. Here are some ways fans can engage:
- Social Media Interaction: Following drivers and teams on social platforms for real-time updates and behind-the-scenes content.
- Fantasy Racing: Participating in fantasy leagues can enhance the viewing experience, allowing fans to cheer for their favorite drivers.
- Attending Events: Live attendance at the Roval provides fans with an unmatched experience of the race day atmosphere.
Conclusion
With Shane van Gisbergen securing pole position and non-playoff drivers eager to make a mark, the Roval promises to be an exhilarating race in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs. The unique challenges of the track, coupled with the competitiveness of both playoff and non-playoff drivers, ensure that this event will be one to watch.
