Drivers face an intense showdown at the Charlotte Motor Speedway Road Course, a key elimination race in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs where the field will shrink from 12 to 8 contenders. The newly reconfigured 2.28-mile, 17-turn layout features significant changes, including an extended straightaway and a sharper hairpin turn, adding a fresh challenge for teams and drivers. Team Penske drivers Joey Logano and Austin Cindric qualified 4th and 5th respectively, while Ryan Blaney starts at 14th. Cindric emphasized the importance of track position and aims for a win to advance his playoff hopes.

By the Numbers
  • Team Penske holds 13 national series wins at Charlotte Motor Speedway across both Cup and Xfinity Series.
  • Ryan Blaney has finished outside the top 12 only once in six starts on Charlotte's road course layout.
State of Play
  • The Bank of America Roval 400 is crucial for playoff contention as the field narrows.
  • Team Penske drivers are poised to capitalize on their starting positions to advance in the playoffs.
What's Next

The race is set to begin Sunday at 2:00 p.m. ET, where teams will showcase strategies and adaptability on the newly configured layout. Key drivers need strong performances to secure a playoff spot.

Bottom Line

With significant changes to the course and high stakes in the playoffs, expect a thrilling race at Charlotte, where strategy and skill will determine who advances. Team Penske is well-positioned, but every driver will feel the pressure to perform.