One confusing aspect of NASCAR is the limited scheduling of races after sunset at circuits equipped with lights. Given the scorching summer heat endured by fans during the regular season, the logic of maximizing the number of night races seems self-evident to a large degree. Recently, Chase Elliott addressed this very topic during a media interaction prior to the night race in Nashville.
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The Hendrick Motorsports driver advocated for NASCAR to increase the frequency of nighttime races, providing relief to fans from the sweltering sun. The 2020 Cup Series champion also mentioned a few other changes he would like to see that would in turn benefit the fans watching the races.
Chase Elliott explains his preference to see more night races
Speaking ahead of the race at Nashville, Elliott shared why he appreciated NASCAR hosting these night races. He also wished that there were more such races in the future since he believed they were a better experience for the fans who came down to attend these.
Elliott stated, “This time of year is hot for the drivers it is what it is … but for the people sitting the grandstands, goodness, it’s 95 degrees here in the summer like sitting In the bleachers. There’s no reason to be roasting on Sunday afternoon when a facility has lights.”
“We’d love to see these events be on Saturday nights instead of Sunday nights for people that have to go to work on Monday morning. But I just don’t see any reason why we shouldn’t have more night races during these months where it’s so hot for the spectators.”
Throwback to Chase Elliott’s incredible win at Nashville last year
During last year’s race at Nashville, Elliott demonstrated his ability to thrive under immense pressure. After a remarkable run, he surpassed six cars on the final lap, leading him to the victory lane. The Ally 400 saw Elliott’s impeccable skills after he was able to navigate through two significant weather delays, which pushed the latter half of the race into Sunday night.
Despite the challenges, Elliott remained unflinching, managing a late-race caution to achieve a win at the Nashville Superspeedway, making it his second victory of the 2022 season. During the final long green flag run, Elliott established a considerable lead. It seemed as if nothing could deter him from a resounding win. However, a twist of fate occurred when Josh Bilicki’s engine failure triggered a late-race caution with just nine laps left. This unexpected turn of events paved the way for a thrilling final sprint to the finish line.
After struggling for much of this season, the Hendrick Motorsports driver needs another scintillating performance if he wants to make his path to the playoffs easier.
