Michael McDowell, driver of the No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet, spoke to the media before the NASCAR Cup Series race at the Chicago Street Course. He expressed his excitement about partnering with DePaul University as a sponsor, highlighting its impact on local fan engagement. While discussing the challenging nature of the street course, he noted the need for a balance between aggression and technical precision to succeed. McDowell shared insights on maintaining confidence from his previous race in Mexico City and emphasized the importance of refining his car's setup for better performance. He also reflected on the overall success of the Chicago race experience despite previous challenges.

By the Numbers
  • Qualified in the top three at Mexico City, finishing fourth or fifth.
  • Previously had multiple top 10 finishes, but currently has three or four finishes just outside the top 10.
Yes, But

Despite discussing the growth in team chemistry, McDowell acknowledged persistent mechanical issues and unexpected challenges, which have affected their performance this season. He pointed out that what worked for them in the past doesn't always yield the same results now.

State of Play
  • The Chicago race has had to overcome adverse weather conditions in its history.
  • McDowell is optimistic about finding the right setup with upcoming road course races providing opportunities for wins.
What's Next

Moving forward, McDowell aims to optimize strategies as he gauges performance in Chicago and subsequent road courses, believing that proper execution could yield better results. He hopes for favorable race conditions to enhance their chances.

Bottom Line

McDowell's insights reveal a blend of optimism and realism; while he acknowledges the challenges faced, he remains committed to refining his team's performance and believes in their potential to compete effectively ahead.