KANSAS CITY, MO – The NASCAR Cup Series heads to Kansas Speedway this Sunday for the highly anticipated Hollywood Casino 400, marking Round 30 of the 2024 season. Fans can catch the action on USA Network, MRN, or SiriusXM NASCAR Radio at 3 p.m. EDT.
Race Overview
The Hollywood Casino 400 features a 1.5-mile oval layout with 267 laps, covering 400.5 miles. The race is divided into three stages: Stage 1, at 80 laps; Stage 2, at 85 laps; and the Final Stage, at 102 laps. With a field of top contenders ready to battle, this race is critical as the playoffs progress.
Spotlight on Chase Briscoe
One driver to watch is Chase Briscoe, piloting the No. 14 Mahindra Tractors Ford Mustang Dark Horse. Briscoe earned his playoff berth with a dramatic victory at the Cook Out Southern 500 on September 1 and has been a standout performer since, making it to the Round of 12 despite a rocky start.
After finishing last at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Briscoe rebounded impressively, securing a sixth-place finish at Watkins Glen. His consistency paid off again at Bristol, where he finished eighth, solidifying his playoff position. Briscoe’s confidence is palpable as he gears up for Kansas: “I don’t think anyone believes us, but I really think we can battle for the championship,” he stated.
Kansas Speedway History
This weekend marks Briscoe’s eighth NASCAR Cup Series start at Kansas. While still searching for his first top-10 finish at this track, he has consistently performed well, with four finishes of 21st or better. Briscoe’s best Cup Series finish came in September 2022, when he placed 13th. His history in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Kansas is more impressive, culminating in a dominating win in 2020.
Track Dynamics and Strategy
Briscoe acknowledges the unique challenges posed by Kansas Speedway, particularly the need for raw speed and balance in the car. “It’s a place where the raw speed of the car is a big deal,” he explained. Drivers will need to excel on restarts to gain crucial positions, as the chaotic nature of these moments can significantly influence the race’s outcome.
Community and Resilience
Briscoe will carry a special tribute on his car, adding a personal touch to the race. Heath Dodson, a cancer warrior currently battling esophageal cancer, is being honored through the Martin Truex Jr. Foundation’s “Honor a Cancer Hero” program. Dodson’s story embodies resilience, making the race more meaningful for Briscoe and his team.
Anticipation Builds
The NextGen car’s competitive edge heightened the potential for close finishes, so fans can expect an exhilarating race. As Briscoe and the other playoff drivers vie for crucial points, the Hollywood Casino 400 promises to deliver high-stakes action and unforgettable moments.
As race day approaches, the excitement builds at Kansas Speedway. Whether you’re cheering for Briscoe or another contender, this Sunday’s race is set to be a highlight of the NASCAR season.
