NASCAR Should Change Its Fastest Lap Rule

Berry started the Sunday race on the wrong foot, spinning out on lap one. It was a major letdown for the Wood Brothers Racing driver, who started the race in third after impressing fans during qualifying. The one positive that did come from the day was that, despite being around 130 laps down, Berry recorded the fastest lap, earning him a point in the race. That means he left Darlington with two, one for the finishing position and the other for the lap bonus.

Berry is the third driver this season to take the fastest lap point after suffering damage and being forced off the track. Kyle Larson got the point twice after getting repairs in Mexico City and at Watkins Glen. Those points helped Larson finish ahead of his teammate, Chase Elliott, in the regular season.

The Purpose Of The Point

The original purpose of the one-point fastest lap bonus was to give drivers an incentive to continue racing hard, even if they’re forced off the track or crash during the race. It can be argued that while it’s a good incentive, it’s not fair that a lapped car with newer tires gets a point ahead of a vehicle that didn’t get loose.

The point is also a great way to keep fans engaged, even if they’re preferred driver is no longer in contention to win. They still have something to cheer for and are more likely to stay involved through the whole race. It also has the same impact on team morale. The driver and the pit crew still have a chance to leave the weekend with something positive, so they continue to be a competitor. The entire track will continue racing, no matter how far back a lapped car is.

End Of My NASCAR Fastest Lap Point Rant

It remains unclear whether any changes will be made to the fastest lap point. NASCAR communications director Mike Forde said that while discussions are underway, everything is still in the preliminary stages. While there are benefits to the system, some changes should be made to ensure that a driver who is over 100 laps behind does not receive a point that’s not completely deserved. Some more specifics on who gets the point should be considered. That could include a driver who was forced off because of another driver’s error being qualified, or just a lap limit for how far a car is lapped.