Kevin Harvick, 2014 NASCAR champion, is calling for a significant NASCAR Cup Series speed improvement demand after observing what he describes as a troubling trend in recent races. Harvick’s frustration reached a boiling point following the Iowa weekend, where an ARCA car managed to post a faster qualifying time than the Cup Series cars, prompting Harvick to insist that urgent change is needed to address the issue.
This controversy arose when Harvick, reviewing the performance of the NASCAR Cup Series at the Iowa circuit, noted that the top ARCA vehicle outperformed the supposedly premier Cup Series machine for speed. Such an outcome has left the former champion dissatisfied, especially given the expectation that Cup Series cars should represent the highest performance standard among NASCAR divisions. The disparity in pace has pushed Harvick to take a vocal stand, insisting that the lack of speed is harming the racing quality and spectacle, particularly on short tracks and road courses, where the problem seems most pronounced.
Harvick’s Criticism Over Cup Series Speed
In a recent episode of his “Happy Hour” podcast, Harvick delivered a blunt assessment of the situation after the Iowa race. He revealed his shock that an ARCA car was able to record a faster time than a Cup car, and highlighted the impact this has on the race itself, emphasizing the greater difficulty for drivers to execute overtakes as speeds drop and mid-corner velocity rises.
“I don’t think that there was anything more evident than this weekend. The ARCA car outqualified the Cup car and it was extremely difficult to pass. The slower you go, the harder it’s going to be to pass, the faster the mid-corner speed is.”
—Kevin Harvick, 2014 NASCAR Champion
For Harvick, the solution is clear: NASCAR must enforce a major boost in horsepower across the Cup Series fleet. He argues that raising power significantly would improve on-track excitement and restore the distinction of driving at the sport’s top level. Harvick made it plain that, especially during events at short tracks and road courses, the cars should never be eclipsed by vehicles from lower-tier competitions like ARCA.
“I think it just takes away from being a Cup driver, and in the end, the cars are so damn slow they don’t race good.”
—Kevin Harvick, 2014 NASCAR Champion
Obstacles to Implementing Car Speed Changes
While Harvick’s demand for greater speed in the Cup Series is clear, he also addressed why this improvement hasn’t materialized to date. He pointed to the complex coordination required with manufacturers, who need sufficient time to design and produce engine components. Additionally, the financial commitment of overhauling powertrains represents a significant challenge for teams, which likely impedes swift action on increasing horsepower.
“But I think in this type of situation, I think the teams are as much of a holdup as NASCAR because of the fact that they’re going to have to spend money and change the things that come with that.”
—Kevin Harvick, 2014 NASCAR Champion
The involvement of major teams like Team Penske and Hendrick Motorsports, and the influence of car manufacturers, further complicate the landscape. With any potential technical upgrades requiring investment and logistical adjustments, both the organizations and NASCAR itself face hurdles in implementing meaningful speed improvements throughout the Cup Series.
Why the Speed Issue Matters for NASCAR’s Future
Harvick’s outspoken criticism highlights growing concerns within the NASCAR community about whether Cup Series racing is delivering the level of competition expected at the highest tier. The oddity of ARCA cars outpacing Cup cars has placed added pressure on NASCAR officials and teams to address calls for speed and excitement. As influential figures like Harvick continue to press their demands, the debate over increasing horsepower and preserving the Cup Series’ reputation shows no signs of fading. The next steps for NASCAR, its teams, and manufacturers will be critical as they decide how, or if, to act on this urgent speed improvement demand.
