When it comes to NASCAR’s list of most successful drivers, the list might be incomplete without the name of Kyle Busch. After winning three races last year, Kyle Busch is still hunting for his first win of the 2024 season. Kyle Busch has achieved a lot of milestones in the sport despite the changes made by NASCAR in its car over the years. Once again Kyle Busch is proving his ability by being the only driver in a recent published data by Tray Ryan.
Despite the hurdles, Kyle Busch remains within the tops
Something I find interesting:
Kyle Busch is the only active driver on this list.
Winning back to back races happens on average ~5 times PER year, but it’s only happened 3 times period with the NextGen car https://t.co/CcQB41OmZy
— Trey Ryan (@TreyRyan99) March 28, 2024
Recently, Trey Ryan shared statistics on back-to-back wins in NASCAR from 1972 to the present. Jeff Gordon, Dale Earnhardt, and Jimmie Johnson secured the top three spots in this list. Notably, the compilation included all the big names in NASCAR history, such as Richard Petty, Bill Elliott, Kevin Harvick and Kyle Busch. With Kevin Harvick’s retirement last year, Kyle Busch emerges as the lone representative from the modern era, holding the 11th place with an impressive eight back-to-back wins to his name.
Why there is only one modern-era driver? Trey also shared a reason for the decreased average of back-to-back wins claiming that due to the introduction of NextGen cars.
How did NextGen cars affect driver’s performances?
The NASCAR Next Gen car has significantly impacted drivers’ performance in several ways some in a positive while others opposing driver’s performances.
Instead of traditional sheet metal, the Next Gen car’s body is made of a composite material. This material is more durable and can withstand contact with walls or other cars without compromising performance.
The move from the Gen 6 to the Next Gen car required adjustments for teams, drivers, and crew members. Adapting to the new platform and its components posed logistical challenges.
Drivers needed time to understand the handling characteristics of the Next Gen cars. Adjusting to the changes in aerodynamics and performance took some races. A recent demand for horsepower is no storage to any NASCAR fans nowadays.
READ MORE: Denny Hamlin Reveals Key Aspect He Wants to Change in Next Gen Cars
