NASCAR’s senior vice president, Elton Sawyer, has broken his silence after repeated complaints from race fans about short-track and road-course racing, directly addressing concerns about the state of the racing product. In his recent response, Sawyer offered his Elton Sawyer NASCAR racing quality response, assuring the community that improvements are an ongoing focus for the sport’s leadership.
Officials Acknowledge Fan Frustrations and Seek Solutions
Feedback from fans has highlighted persistent issues since the debut of the NextGen, or seventh-generation, cars in the Cup Series. Despite four seasons of experimentation and attempted enhancements, NASCAR’s attempts to boost the quality of competition have not delivered the desired results, and the search for effective remedies continues.
During an interview on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Elton Sawyer shared that NASCAR leaders are aware of the ongoing frustrations among the fanbase regarding Cup Series events. He emphasized the governing body’s commitment to progress, explaining the ongoing review of all variables shaping the on-track racing experience, from cars to tires.
always looking to make our product better.
—Elton Sawyer, Senior Vice President, NASCAR
“When we look at our product that’s on the race track, we want to continue to look at that and what we can do, whether it’s the car, whether it’s the engines, whether it’s the tires, whatever it may be to continue week in and week out to bring the best racing to our race fans as we possibly can.”
—Elton Sawyer, Senior Vice President, NASCAR
Sawyer noted that officials are not content with the current product and remain focused on adjustments that will lead to a stronger racing experience. He underlined this point as Richmond Raceway approaches its next major date on the Cup Series calendar.
Ongoing Efforts Highlighted Ahead of Richmond Raceway Race
Looking toward the upcoming Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway, Sawyer commented on NASCAR’s efforts to use race weekends as live opportunities for testing and refinement. He recounted the organization’s approach to continuous evaluation and improvements, signifying a proactive stance in response to ongoing feedback from all corners of the community.
“This weekend, we’re off to Richmond, another short track where we have spent some time there testing over the years. Our goal was always to just continue to make the product better. I can’t emphasize that enough. We’re not just sitting still on what we have.”
—Elton Sawyer, Senior Vice President, NASCAR
The Cook Out 400, set for Saturday, August 16, 2025, marks the 25th race in the 2025 Cup Series and will be broadcast live from Richmond Raceway. Fans will be able to tune in to the 300-mile contest through various platforms, including MRN, USA, HBO Max, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90, with the green flag scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Eastern.
Entry List and Previous Winner at Richmond Raceway
Prominent NASCAR analyst Bob Pockrass has shared the full lineup of 39 Cup Series drivers who will compete in the 400-lap Richmond event this weekend. The entry list represents a robust lineup, as teams and drivers gear up for one of the season’s key short-track contests.
Richard Childress Racing competitor Austin Dillon memorably captured the win at the 2024 Cook Out 400, piloting his car to victory in just over three hours. Dillon’s achievement at Richmond underscores the track’s potential for drama and competition, pointing to high expectations for what this year’s race may hold.
NASCAR’s leadership, including Elton Sawyer, continues to communicate that addressing racing quality concerns remains a high priority. As the series returns to Richmond Raceway for another high-profile event, fans, drivers, and officials alike will be watching for progress on and off the track.
