FOX broadcaster Clint Bowyer has found himself in the spotlight after making comments about NASCAR’s latest upgrade to the Next Gen car, and caught fans' attention.

Earlier this week, the sanctioning body announced that from the race at Daytona International Speedway in August, they will utilize a four-inch spoiler (down from seven inches)  and wide splitter stuffers, which are identical to those used at intermediate tracks.

While Bowyer welcomed this news, he also felt that NASCAR should also focus on improving the racing product at short tracks. He put out a post on his X account about the same. 

"As glad as I am to see them make some changes to the drafting tracks cars, I’m equally (actually more) frustrated they haven’t swung the bat towards the short track program," Bowyer wrote in his post on X.

NASCAR fans have criticized short-track racing since the introduction of the Next-Gen car in 2022. These cars aid in minimal passing and reward fuel-saving strategies, making the races less exciting.

As a result, Bowyer's post struck a chord.

NASCAR fans react to Clint Bowyer’s criticism of Next Gen 

Under Clint Bowyer's post, many fans gave their opinion about racing at short tracks with the Next Gen car.

One fan highlighted that the Next Gen package has failed to produce quality races on several tracks, not just short tracks. They wrote,

"Only the 1.5 and Atlanta are good races with this Gen 7 car. Even the road courses aren’t competitive at all."

Another fan argued that NASCAR needs to make changes to its aerodynamic package. They commented,

"Needs to be a bigger swing made at improving what a car can do behind another. Being in one’s wake shouldn’t upset the car nearly as much as it does. I still think aero is playing too much of a role in short track racing."

Another fan pointed out the lack of action during last weekend's race at North Wilkesboro. They wrote,

"Lack of cautions and cars lapped up to fourth make for a s*** race.. give them all the horsetorques back and make em bang.. I fully expected drama last night.. and nope…"

On the same lines, one fan added, "It's been 5 years, Clint. Fans are rightfully frustrated. The Next Gen car has ruined the best product in NASCAR. It's a shame we didnt get a proper O'Reilly race here this weekend."

A fan also agreed with Clint Bowyer’s take on the situation. They wrote, 

"I agree. There was some good Racing back in the pack, but there’s no passing leader."

Do you agree with Clint Bowyer’s take? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Chionia Libania Colaco

Edited by

Yash Kotak