Goodyear Introduces New Left-Side Tire for NASCAR Martinsville Playoffs

Goodyear is introducing a new left-side tire compound for the NASCAR Cup Series playoff race at Martinsville Speedway, aimed at providing increased grip early and more lap time fall-off over a long run. This softer compound tire, tested earlier at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, is designed to create a different racing dynamic on Martinsville's unique concrete corners and asphalt straightaways compared to previous tires used there. The new left-side tire will be paired with a familiar right-side tire that has been used successfully in five races this season, including Martinsville's spring event. Crew chiefs and drivers expect the tire change to impact strategies and race behavior, with some noting the track and ambient conditions will make the race a "different animal." Goodyear's move continues its efforts to innovate tire performance for NASCAR, aiming to enhance competition and tire management challenges. This introduction adds a level of unpredictability to the penultimate Cup Series race and Round of 8 playoff finale at Martinsville Speedway.