CONCORD, N.C. – Talladega is considered one of the most fun tracks for fans. Always an exciting race with an energetic atmosphere, teams and fans look forward to attending the biggest, fastest track on the circuit.
After sitting down with SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, it seems that William Byron, driver of the No. 24 Hertz Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, is also excited to get to the Alabama track to race.
But with the new rules package in play, particularly no restrictor plates at the track for the first time since 1987, there is plenty still up in the air.
“I’m not really sure what to expect," Byron said. “I think it’s the biggest unknown going into a speedway race that we’ve had in the past two or three years. I’m sure it’s going to be exciting for the fans. I’m not really sure what to expect but I heard that the cars are a lot faster actually with the more horsepower we have so we will see what happens.”
The driver predicted running in closer packs throughout the race, and he's interested to see how the draft unfolds.
Going into an unpredictable race, Byron and the No. 24 team had to set a game plan for the two practice sessions on Friday afternoon in hopes of utilizing the time the best they could. With most drivers on the same playing field as far as not knowing what to expect come race time, fans may see organizations teaming up at practice to try to gain insight on racing in a pack before Sunday's main event.
“I feel like you’re going to have to. That first practice I feel like we’re probably going to be on our own somewhat," Byron said. "Just making laps and making sure everything is good on our end. I feel like you’re going to have to get out there and draft and learn what your car can do and what you need to work on. The race is such an unknown.”
With a game plan set, Byron also looked to previous races to see what he could improve. One thing he mentioned was improving communication with his No. 24 team. That skill will be imperative as the Hertz Chevy team plans to make it to Victory Lane at the end of the 500-lap race.
“Really I think just feedback and communication on the radio,” Byron said. “Just being clear and concise during the races so that the guys can make quick adjustments and not have to second guess what they are going to adjust on. I feel like we have also learned that at the track we have limited track time and there’s not a lot of time to make huge adjustments as it is. So, we've got to stay in our box a little bit at the track and make sure we are fine-tuning and not making big adjustments when we don’t know what to expect.”
Byron is hoping for a great race, especially now that some special guests of his are expected to be at the track.
“I think Talladega is pretty fun, I’ve got some plans down there,” the driver told SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. “I've got some friends actually coming to the race from Alabama, too, so hopefully they will have a good time.”
The Talladega track may be filled with unknowns for the drivers and teams, but for fans, it is sure to be loaded with energy and excitement. The green flag on Sunday is scheduled for 2 p.m. ET on FOX.