As conversations about NASCAR’s on-track product continue to intensify, a long-debated topic is back in the spotlight: horsepower. On the May 7 episode of the Hauler Talk podcast, NASCAR Managing Director of Racing Communications Mike Forde made headlines by suggesting that the sanctioning body may seriously consider a modest increase in horsepower for the Cup Series. While no promises were made, Forde’s comments—combined with recent remarks from engine builders—have reignited discussion around how to improve the racing product, especially on short tracks and intermediate ovals.
So what does this mean for fans, teams, and the future of the Next Gen era? The discussion around horsepower is far from new, but the latest developments hint that change, even if small, could be on the horizon.
Listening to Drivers: NASCAR Open to Modest Horsepower Boost
During the podcast, Mike Forde addressed a key issue that has resonated with both fans and drivers over the past few seasons: the need for more horsepower to improve the racing experience, particularly on short tracks. Forde made it clear that NASCAR officials are hearing those calls loud and clear.
“That’s something that we’re gonna look at seriously, I think,” Forde said when asked about the possibility of boosting horsepower. While not a guarantee, Forde’s words provided fans with rare insight into internal discussions happening within NASCAR’s competition department. Still, he was quick to note that dramatic changes—such as a return to 900 to 1000 horsepower engines—are not on the table due to financial concerns.
“You hear some levels of 900 or 1000 horsepower. I don’t know if that’s… it’s not on the table, just because of the cost,” Forde explained.
“But there’s some conversation of, ‘Can you go up to 750?’ And that’s something that, well, I’m sure we’ll discuss with the drivers too.” – Mike Forde
The admission highlights NASCAR’s ongoing effort to balance cost containment with competitive quality. It’s also a nod to the role of driver input in shaping future rule changes, with Forde reassuring fans that officials are paying attention.
“I don’t want to make any promises or get anyone’s hopes up, but we seriously listened to the drivers and their feedback.” – Mike Forde
Industry Support: Engine Builders Say a Small Bump is Feasible
Interestingly, the discussion from Forde came on the heels of similar remarks from Doug Yates, CEO of Roush Yates Engines—the provider of Ford’s Cup Series power plants. In an interview with SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Yates indicated that a modest bump in horsepower from the current 650–670 range up to approximately 750 HP would not be a major burden on engine manufacturers.
“If we were to increase the power from 670 horsepower to about 750 horsepower, that probably wouldn’t be much of a change for us today,” Yates said.
“But to go back to those 900 horsepower engines, that would be quite the project, and it would definitely decrease the life of the engines.” – Roush Yates
Yates’ comments suggest that manufacturers are not opposed to the idea—at least when it comes to a small increase. In fact, the suggestion that engine builders could handle a modest change with minimal disruption adds weight to the argument that a bump to 750 HP is not only possible but perhaps overdue.
This aligns with sentiments long held by fans and some drivers who argue that higher horsepower could improve the racing product by making the cars more difficult to drive, increasing tire wear, and ultimately boosting passing opportunities.
Looking Ahead: Meetings, Mexico, and a Changing Landscape
As part of their ongoing dialogue with drivers, NASCAR officials will meet with the Cup garage this Saturday at Kansas Speedway to gather feedback on several hot-button issues—including horsepower. The timing of the discussion is strategic, coming just weeks ahead of the first-ever NASCAR Cup Series race in Mexico City and amid growing scrutiny over superspeedway rules packages.
Topics on the Kansas meeting agenda include tweaks to the superspeedway aero package to reduce liftoff speeds, planning for the Mexico City race, and yes—future horsepower levels.
While NASCAR has not outlined a formal timeline for any changes, Forde’s comments suggest that the conversation is gaining momentum behind closed doors. Even if a decision is months away, the fact that the topic is back on the table represents a shift in tone from recent years.
NASCAR is also juggling additional technical preparations. With Homestead-Miami Speedway returning as the 2026 Championship race site, Forde confirmed that Goodyear and NASCAR officials are discussing a potential tire test to account for the 19-month layoff between Cup races at the South Florida track.
“You can almost guarantee an extended practice of at least 50 minutes Friday and maybe going super old school with 50 minutes Saturday morning into qualifying,” Forde said. However, he downplayed the likelihood of a full organizational test due to cost and scheduling limits.
News in Brief: NASCAR Official Teases Possible Horsepower Bump
Mike Forde’s comments may not confirm that horsepower is increasing, but they do show that NASCAR is willing to have the conversation. The fact that a managing director is acknowledging the possibility of a bump to 750 HP—especially with engine builders expressing similar openness—suggests the idea is no longer fringe. It’s on the radar.
Whether that translates into real change remains to be seen. NASCAR has always operated with a cautious, cost-conscious approach to competition changes, and the economic pressures facing teams and manufacturers aren’t going away.
But for now, the fans asking for more horsepower can feel heard. And that, in itself, may be the first step toward a faster, more competitive future.
ALSO READ: Battle Brewing in Kansas: Kyle Larson Sees Toyotas as Threat Despite Chevrolet’s Recent Success
