Early reviews are positive from Kansas Speedway reconfiguration

Several NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams took to the newly reconfigured Kansas Speedway today and the reviews are in – and they have been pretty positive as teams navigate the variable banking for the first time.

“I think they did a really nice job repaving,” said Matt Kenseth. “Drivers aren’t huge fans of repaves, especially being the first ones on the track, by this afternoon the cars were more comfortable on the track. I think the repave is awesome.”

Regan Smith agreed.

“We’ve seen quite a few of these this year already. They did a pretty good job with this one.”

For Dale Earnhardt Jr., the day was about getting some time on the track.

“It’s nice to get out on the track. It’s nice to see the track. I like this place,” said Earnhardt, Jr. “The banking will add speed to the race track and one and two definitely have more banking. This should be a fast little race track.”

Kenseth, who holds the track record of 180.856 mph set back in 2005, expects a new track record this fall.

“We’re already running, the last lap was 30.30 or something,” said Kenseth. “You know it’s going to be faster when everybody runs in qualifying runs. I expect it to be the high 28s in a qualifying run.”

The Goodyear Tire Test resumes tomorrow at 9 AM and is open and free to the public. Fans are asked to enter at Michigan Dr. off of Speedway Blvd. Due to another event setting up at Kansas Speedway, fans will only be able to enter at Gate D (closest to Turn 1) and sit in sections 169 and 171. Parking will be available in lots 5 and 6. Parking lots and gates will open at 8:30 AM. Sprint FanWalk will not be open.

Restroom facilities will be open. Concessions will not be available, however fans are permitted to bring in a 14x14x14-inch soft-sided cooler with their favorite food and beverages.

Kansas Speedway PR