Goodyear teases expanded NASCAR option tire program - "We've left the door open"

Goodyear is considering expanding its NASCAR option tire program. It was announced that teams will be allowed to choose between different tire types, soft and hard, during races. The program is still in its early stages but is already getting attention from teams, drivers and fans.

In an interview at SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Greg Stucker, director at the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, talked about what might come next for the program. He added that Goodyear is open to using it more often if it proves successful.

"We wouldn't be going down this road if we weren't willing to do it more often," Stucker said.

He also mentioned that if the program works well, Goodyear will figure out how to make it a regular feature in NASCAR.

"If it's successful, then, you know, we'll take it as our responsibility to see how we can make it work on a more regular basis, or at the right time. We've left the door open. It certainly may not be something you do everywhere," he added.

Stucker explained that while this tire strategy might not be suitable for all types of tracks, short tracks seem like a better fit.

"I think, you know, the Short Tracks lend itself to, you know, to this sort of thing," he said.

Tires play an important role in stock car racing, and Goodyear has been a partner of NASCAR since 1954.

They renewed their long partnership this year, with Goodyear continuing as the exclusive tire provider for NASCAR's top three series. The company makes over 100,000 tires each year for NASCAR.

Over the years, there have also been major tire innovations. The 18-inch Goodyear Racing Eagle tire was introduced and is now used in NASCAR's Next Gen cars.

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Goodyear's soft vs. hard tire strategy

The new option between soft and hard tires will offer teams more strategic choices during races.

Soft tires give better grip but wear out quickly, while hard tires last longer. Teams will need to plan carefully when to use each type. This is the first time these tires will be used in a points race.

So far, the option tire program has been used in two races, with a wet-weather tire for the second race. While it seems like a good choice for now, Stucker suggested that Goodyear might keep improving on it.

Stucker also mentioned that the option tire program could add another layer of strategy at tracks like Richmond.

"I think Richmond is a racetrack where strategy has been coming into play over the last couple of years with the way guys run stages. And I think this will just add to that," he said.