NASCAR's 2026 Power Boost: A Step Forward, But Not a Magic Bullet
NASCAR fans, get ready! The sport is revving up for a change in 2026, with a horsepower increase on the horizon. But will it be a game-changer? Cup drivers are cautiously optimistic, suggesting this is a step in the right direction, but not a complete fix.
Just before the Las Vegas race weekend, NASCAR President Steve O’Donnell announced a horsepower boost, taking engines from 670 to 750 on oval tracks shorter than 1.5 miles, and all road courses.
John Probst, NASCAR’s chief racing development officer, explained that this increase is part of a larger strategy. "Anytime we consider changes to the car, we have to look at it as a package," he said. "We’ve been doing a lot of work with the tires, and we think we’ve put on some pretty good short-track races. These engines will work the tires more.”
Christopher Bell is enthusiastic about the change, especially when combined with the improvements Goodyear has made to the tires. He recalled how the cars felt “locked down” on road courses a couple of years ago. Now, with the tire changes and the added horsepower, he believes it will make a significant difference.
Joey Logano agrees, highlighting Goodyear's recent tire advancements. He believes the new tires, which degrade more quickly, will work well with the increased horsepower. "The horsepower will make the fall off a little bit faster. There will be more fall off with more horsepower, so it’s directionally kind of going that way, but what Goodyear is doing is the biggest part of the equation, in my opinion,” Logano said.
But here's where it gets controversial... Kyle Larson, who regularly races a Sprint Car with 1,000 horsepower, urges fans to temper their expectations. He suggests the difference might not be as dramatic as some anticipate. He mentioned a recent test where he didn't even realize he was driving with more horsepower.
Logano also pointed out the limitations preventing a more substantial horsepower increase. "It’s not that simple to just take the tapered spacer off and open them up and let her eat,” he said. He explained that there are many factors to consider when making such changes, but the direction is correct.
So, what do you think? Will the horsepower increase significantly improve the racing experience? Or will the changes be subtle? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
About the Author: Deb Williams is an award-winning motorsports journalist with decades of experience covering auto racing. She has written for numerous publications, including United Press International, espnW.com, USA Today, and The Charlotte Observer. She was inducted into the NMPA Hall of Fame in 2024.
