Atlanta underwent a major reconfiguration between the 2021 and 2022 seasons. Its banking was dramatically increased to 28 degrees in the corners, and the racing surface was narrowed. These changes allow for a non-stop, position changing, exciting race similar to Daytona or Talladega.
SUPERSPEEDWAY - This is how Atlanta now races, despite its 1.54-mile length, which traditionally classifies it as an intermediate track. Unlike older intermediate ovals where cars might spread out, Atlanta's design, combined with NASCAR's rules package, creates dense, multi-car packs, much like the iconic Daytona and Talladega circuits. This means constant drafting, strategic lane changes, and the potential for dramatic finishes where mere inches separate the front runners.
THREE WIDE - This is a common sight at Atlanta, showcasing the intense competition. Even with its narrower configuration, the high banking and the pack racing style allow drivers to run side-by-side-by-side as they fight for position. The February 2024 Cup Series race, for example, delivered the closest three-wide photo finish in NASCAR history where Daniel Suarez got his 2nd cup series win.
TAPERED SPACER - This small, conical device is similar to the restrictor plates once used at superspeedways. Placed in the engine's intake, to significantly reduce horsepower. This intentional restriction keeps speeds in a manageable range, preventing cars from being too fast to handle in tight packs. By limiting individual car speed, the tapered spacer emphasizes drafting and aerodynamic pushes, forcing cars into close proximity and contributing directly to the pack racing style.
Atlanta Motor Speedway, therefore, represents a unique blend, offering the high-stakes, pack-racing excitement of a superspeedway on an intermediate-sized oval. Most drivers are overly exhausted after Atlanta.
