What is the NASCAR Wave Around rule?

Last Modified May 8, 2024 15:23 GMT
What is the NASCAR Wave Around rule?
The 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Food City Dirt Race. Source: Getty Images.

For any NASCAR race to run, numerous rules and regulations are to be followed. These rules cover all facets of the racing realm. From the structure of the car to the procedure of a race restart, NASCAR race directors and teams have to make sure to abide by these rules.

These rules are comprehensive and exhaustive and cover every scenario that can arise during a race. Though the races are lauded and appreciated for their intense overtakes and fast-paced racing, the safety regulations in place are solely responsible for making them happen without endangering the drivers and spectators alike.

NASCAR Wave Around rule

The NASCAR Wave Around is a rule that falls under the race procedure domain. To understand Wave Around better one must also know about Free Pass or sometimes called Lucky Dog. Both of these procedures are followed during caution. When there is a caution on track, the lapped cars are allowed to unlap themselves and catch a free pass to catch up with the leading lap.

If a lapped driver is not able to take advantage of Lucky Dog, they can make sure of the Wave Around rule in a few situations. Here, if the race leader pits under caution, the lapped cars are allowed to go around and un-lap themselves. This also comes with the condition that the un-lapped cars can not pit under caution. This can put them at a fuel and tire disadvantage.

FAQ's on What is the NASCAR Wave Around rule?

A. This rule in Indycar helps ensure that there is no lapped car in front of the leader of the race at the time of a restart.

A. NASCAR or the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing is the sanction body that is responsible for stock-car racing in the Americas.

A. Choose rule is often used as a racing strategy where each driver is allowed to pick a lane during a restart.

A. Yes, there are numerous rules and regulations that teams and drivers have to abide by in NASCAR. Some of these rules are highly publicized while some are kept only between the sanctioning body and the required personnel.

A. Auto racing has traditionally been anti-clockwise, something NASCAR follows to date. This also means any directional changes would require reconfiguration of the entire car.

A. Yes, NASCAR cars are able to turn right and left as needed.

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