Phoenix Option Tire Strategy Plays Out Successfully, Goodyear Confirms
Racing teams successfully utilized Goodyear's option tire at Phoenix Raceway, marking its first implementation at the track. The softer compound tire, distinguished by red sidewall lettering, provided teams with strategic advantages throughout the race.
"Everything went according to plan at Phoenix, and the option tire worked very well," stated Mark Keto, Goodyear NASCAR project manager. The tire allowed teams to gain track position over competitors using prime tires while maintaining longevity during runs.
Race car driver on track racing
Teams received one set of option tires for practice and two sets for the race. The same compound was previously used at North Wilkesboro's All-Star Race and Richmond Raceway last season. Goodyear aims to make this the primary tire for November's championship race, with a three-car test scheduled featuring Austin Dillon, Josh Berry, and Tyler Reddick.
Several drivers demonstrated the tire's effectiveness throughout the race:
- Ryan Preece used option tires early, climbing into the top 10 by lap 27
- Joey Logano leveraged them to regain lost position, reaching second place in stage two
- Austin Cindric, Erik Jones, and Ty Dillon made significant gains in the final stage
Driver feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Chris Buescher called the red tire "a lot of fun," while Zane Smith noted it created "the most fun Phoenix race" he'd experienced. Justin Haley praised the tire's performance, suggesting its potential use at other tracks due to improved handling characteristics.
Most teams strategically saved their final set of option tires for late-race situations, highlighting their value in crucial moments.