NASCAR fans understand how many factors go into a successful race. The form and ability of drivers, the quality of cars, the ability of a pit crew to resolve any issues, and the weather all play a part in who has the best chance of securing victory.
People who bet on NASCAR take all of the above into account when picking their selections for specific meetings. Some drivers may perform better in poor weather compared with others, while a streak of good form can do wonders for a driver’s confidence. Bettors will do their homework before placing a bet and part of that will be finding the best odds on their preferred racers. Exploring a range of online betting operators can help find the best odds or incentives that can increase winnings. Some of the top ones will offer a wide selection of betting markets and provide customers with high levels of security.
The location of a race is every bit as important as the racers taking part and the conditions, with some NASCAR tracks holding a reputation for being particularly challenging. Here is our list of some of the most tricky tracks to keep an eye out for.
Darlington Raceway
Darlington Raceway, also known as the ‘Lady in Black’ is a particularly tough track because drivers are forced close to the outer wall if they want to negotiate the fastest way around the track.
This leaves little room for error and scrapes are commonplace, but this is the least of drivers’ worries if they come into contact with the wall.
Daytona International Speedway
Daytona’s repaving has solved some handling issues, but the iconic 500 miles of racing in tight quarters can still bring out the best, and worst, of some drivers.
This course is all about tactics, teamwork, and communication. If something goes wrong here, the chances are the majority of the field will be affected, a big worry for those placing a wager.
Kentucky Speedway
Starting in 2011, Kentucky Speedway is one of the newest meetings and the lack of experience that teams and drivers have with the track can be problematic. Practice sessions have been essential for drivers to get used to the track, but race day is always different with the additional pressure and all 42 cars in place.
Richmond International Raceway
Richmond International Raceway combines the challenges of a short track with that of an aerodynamic track, meaning a car’s engineering and the temperament of the driver are equally important here.
Good handling is required for passes, unlike other tracks where racing is closer. Balance is required at Richmond, and erring too far towards one discipline can have disastrous results. The track recently let a 102-year-old woman fulfill her bucket list wish to drive a racecar, although probably at much lower speeds than the pros (Richmond refused to disclose the exact speeds she reached)!
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is an old track and the pit crew is essential as tire wear plays a big part in how a race can be won. While speed is key to a NASCAR victory, running a steady race at Indianapolis can help against the front right tire sustaining too much damage, risking a loss of control.
It might seem counterproductive to go slower in a race, but the pit crew chief will often ask that of drivers as part of a long game that can reap rewards.
Conclusion
The challenges of NASCAR tracks don’t simply dictate who can win or lose a race; they can often be the difference between life and death. The Daytona International Speedway has the unwanted record as having the most fatalities, with 14 NASCAR drivers losing their lives here.
This underlines the danger of motorsports and how seriously drivers must take each track they face. The pressures and dangers of racing can be mitigated by practice and concentration, but there is always the risk that other drivers may not be prepared for a track or the conditions.
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