Kurt Busch Shares Insights on 23XI Racing’s Tire Strategy for New Hampshire Race
Kurt Busch, the 2004 NASCAR Cup Series champion, recently shared details about 23XI Racing’s tire strategy ahead of this week’s race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Although Busch no longer competes as a driver for 23XI Racing, he plays a vital role as a mentor and consultant for the Toyota-backed team co-owned by six-time NBA champion Michael Jordan.
### Tire ‘Decode’ Session at New Hampshire
To prepare for the race, the team conducted a 40-lap practice session aimed at analyzing the new Goodyear Racing Eagle tire package. This process, commonly referred to as a “decode,” helps teams gain a better understanding of how the tires and brakes will perform during the race. Busch explained:
> “Any time a new tire’s brought to a track, it’s called a ‘decode.’ Our cars did a 40-lap run because they want a good read on the tires and brakes.”
NASCAR is using the same soft compound tire at New Hampshire that was previously featured at Bowman Gray Stadium, Martinsville Speedway, North Wilkesboro Speedway, and Richmond Raceway. This soft tire compound provides extra grip but tends to wear quicker, making tire strategy a critical factor in the 301-lap event.
### Kurt Busch’s Legacy at New Hampshire
Busch is well-acquainted with the 1.058-mile oval in Loudon, New Hampshire, having earned three Cup Series victories at this track. He secured back-to-back wins with Roush Racing in 2004, followed by another triumph with Penske Racing (now Team Penske) in 2008.
### 23XI Racing’s Current Lineup and Playoff Outlook
Currently, 23XI Racing fields three full-time entries: Bubba Wallace in the #23, Riley Herbst in the #35, and Tyler Reddick in the #45. The upcoming race at New Hampshire will kick off the NASCAR Playoff Round of 12, with both Wallace and Reddick still in contention.
– **Bubba Wallace** sits eighth in the playoff standings, holding a slim one-point buffer.
– **Tyler Reddick** is positioned 12th, just three points below the cutline.
A strong finish at Loudon could significantly improve their chances of advancing deeper into the playoffs.
### Kurt Busch’s Role at the Mobil 1 301
Aside from his mentorship duties, 47-year-old Kurt Busch has been named the grand marshal for the Mobil 1 301, scheduled for September 21 at 2:00 p.m. ET. He shared on social media (X) that he’s at New Hampshire Motor Speedway both to fulfill his grand marshal responsibilities and to support the 23XI Racing team.
Busch also revealed a heartwarming story involving his iconic Loudon the Lobster trophy:
> “In ’08, I was able to capture the first-ever Loudon the Lobster trophy. The track is gifting me a replica because I tried to donate mine to the Boston Aquarium.”
### Reflecting on His NASCAR Career
Before transitioning to his current role with 23XI Racing, Kurt Busch was the driver of the #45 Toyota during the 2022 season. Unfortunately, a crash at Pocono Raceway sidelined him, leading to his official retirement announcement the following year. Over his impressive career, Busch amassed 34 Cup Series race wins and is the older brother of two-time NASCAR champion Kyle Busch, who drives the #8 car for Richard Childress Racing.
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Kurt Busch’s experience and insights continue to prove invaluable to 23XI Racing as they navigate the challenges of the NASCAR playoffs. Fans will be watching closely as the team implements their tire strategy and competes for victory at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/nascar/news-nascar-legend-kurt-busch-shares-explanation-23xi-racing-s-new-tire-plan