Kyle Larson and several top NASCAR drivers have changed how they approach high-speed tracks, thanks to the innovative design of the Next Gen NASCAR. By mastering the art of running close to the wall, notably at tracks such as Homestead-Miami Speedway, Larson has leveraged these advancements to drive with both speed and confidence.
The Next Gen NASCAR car has received both praise and criticism, but few deny it has set new benchmarks in aerodynamics and safety. A clear example of this is seen when competitors use the high line, driving mere inches from the wall to gain crucial speed without feeling the car is on the edge of control. Kyle Larson, driving for Hendrick Motorsports, is recognized for his precision and boldness in this technique. In an in-depth 2023 interview, Larson discussed the delicate balance between risk and reward when utilizing this approach.
“Well, with the Next Gen car, it’s much tougher. At least the body is. So to me, there’s a little less risk running the wall nowadays. It’s a little bit easier to run the wall for whatever reason. The aerodynamics, I think, just pack. It’s easier to pack air between the car and the wall and get a better grip.”
– Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports driver
Larson believes the increased confidence drivers have when riding the wall at venues like Kansas Speedway comes directly from these advanced car features. Alongside peers like Tyler Reddick of 23XI Racing, Larson has a remarkable proficiency for this tactic. He credits his longstanding comfort and ability to consistently navigate within inches of the wall as a major advantage.
“We’re just comfortable carrying speed up there, and it’s been something that clicked with me early on in my career,”
– Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports driver
“I try to use it to my advantage at the few racetracks that you can. So, it’s just an area to stand out above the others and gain some lap time on them.”
– Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports driver
The Science Behind Wall Riding in NASCAR
Anthony Alfredo, a standout driver in the O’Reilly Auto Parts series, has explained the mechanics behind the wall-riding phenomenon through an educational video posted on X. When drivers run as close as possible to the edge of the track, they create what experts call wall proximity. In this situation, small air pockets form between the car and the wall.
These air pockets serve an important purpose by generating a side force, which significantly increases the car’s grip and helps stabilize it at high speeds. At low-grip tracks like Homestead-Miami Speedway, the effect of riding the wall becomes even more pronounced, allowing drivers to squeeze out extra speed by choosing the upper racing line. While this approach offers an edge, it’s a true test of a driver’s skill and nerve.
The rise of the Next Gen NASCAR car has encouraged more competitors to experiment with this technique, making high-speed wall riding not just a test of courage but a showcase of aerodynamic excellence. As drivers like Kyle Larson and Tyler Reddick continue to push the limits, fans can expect to see even more breathtaking maneuvers along the wall at NASCAR’s premier events.
