NASCAR Cup Series drivers Ross Chastain, Shane Van Gisbergen and Speedway Motorsports Senior VP of Operations and Development Steve Swift discuss the changes to the course for this weekend’s NASCAR EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Photo by Mike Haag/Raceday San Antonio

By Mike Haag, Raceday San Antonio

AUSTIN, Texas – NASCAR Cup Series drivers Ross Chastain and Shane Van Gisbergen welcomed media members for a unique tram tour of the newly introduced 17-turn, 2.4-mile National Course at The Circuit of the Americas on Friday. The event, held as a precursor to the highly anticipated EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix, allowed the Trackhouse Racing teammates to share their insights on the circuit’s new configuration, which replaces the 20-turn, 3.41-mile Full Course used in the previous four editions of the race.

Speedway Motorsports Senior VP of Operations, along with NASCAR Cup Series drivers Shane Van Gisbergen and Ross Chastain take a tram ride around Circuit of The Americas track to discuss the changes to the course for this weekend’s NASCAR EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix. Photo by Mike Haag/Raceday San Antonio

Chastain, a five-time Cup Series winner and the 2022 race victor at COTA, broke down the changes for those in attendance. “This new layout is going to put a lot more action in front of the fans,” Chastain said. “With tighter turns and a faster rhythm, drivers will have to be aggressive but precise.”

Van Gisbergen, the three-time Supercars champion from New Zealand, brought a unique perspective, having previously competed on the National Course during his Supercars days in 2013. “It’s a familiar layout for me,” he said. “It rewards drivers who can manage their braking zones and set up clean exits. It’ll be interesting to see how the Cup cars handle it.”

NASCAR Cup Series drivers Shane Van Gisbergen, Ross Chastain and Speedway Motorsports Senior VP of Operations and Development Steve Swift discuss the changes to the course for this weekend’s NASCAR EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Photo by Mike Haag/Raceday San Antonio

As the tram wound its way around the circuit, Speedway Motorsports Senior VP of Operations and Development Steve Swift chimed in with details on the modifications. “The adjustments were made to enhance the racing experience, both for competitors and fans,” Swift explained. “By condensing the track, we’re keeping more of the action within sightlines and ensuring more wheel-to-wheel moments.”

Chastain has had great success at COTA. With a win and three top-five finishes in four appearances, the Floridian has been a dominant force at the Texas road course. However, with the new layout, he admitted it was a fresh challenge. “I can’t rely on my past notes too much. It’s going to take a new approach, but that’s what makes it exciting.”

Van Gisbergen, competing for Rookie of the Year honors against 23XI Racing’s Riley Herbst, has limited Cup experience at COTA, finishing 20th last year. Still, his street and road course expertise remain an asset. “I’ve always enjoyed technical circuits, and this one demands respect,” he said. “Adapting quickly in practice will be key.”

Members of the media listen to NASCAR Cup Series drivers Ross Chastain, Shane Van Gisbergen and Speedway Motorsports Senior VP of Operations and Development Steve Swift discuss the changes to the course for this weekend’s NASCAR EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Photo by Mike Haag/Raceday San Antonio

As the tram approached Turn 1—COTA’s iconic uphill left-hander—Chastain pointed out how the entry dynamics would change. “You’ll see more passing attempts here since we won’t be carrying as much speed as we did on the Full Course. That means more opportunities to set up a move.”

Media members fired off questions about tire strategy, given the increased lap count from 68 to 95. Chastain acknowledged the challenge. “Tire falloff is going to be a factor, especially in longer runs. Managing your equipment over nearly 230 miles will be critical.”

Van Gisbergen added, “Cup cars are heavy, so maintaining rear grip is going to be tricky. Drivers who can conserve their tires early will have a big advantage late in the race.”

As the tram neared the final set of turns, the drivers reflected on the significance of the weekend. With the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix now slotted as the third race of the season, momentum was on the line. “We’re all still settling into our rhythm,” Chastain said. “A strong run here can set the tone for the next stretch of races.”

For Van Gisbergen, it’s another opportunity to prove himself in NASCAR’s top series. “Every race is a learning experience,” he said. “The goal is to get faster, smarter, and closer to the front.”

The EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix will be held Sunday at The Circuit of the Americas. The race begins at 2:30 p.m. CT and will broadcast live on FOX.