Lando Norris Leads Practice Session at World Wide Technology Raceways
Lando Norris showcased his prowess during a rare full-field practice session at World Wide Technology Raceway, setting the fastest lap at 138.024 mph (32.603 seconds). The practice, conducted to ensure all teams received equal track time amid looming storms, saw Norris dominate early on, recording the quickest time on his fourth of 19 laps.
Held under the threat of encroaching weather, the session experienced a brief interruption due to light rain. After an 18-minute delay, NASCAR officials deemed the track dry, and practice resumed shortly after.
Norris’s teammate, Ryan Blaney, was hot on his heels, finishing second with a lap speed of 138.020 mph, a mere 0.001 seconds behind. Ty Gibbs, the fastest Toyota driver, secured third place at 137.923 mph, followed closely by Tyler Reddick (137.640 mph) and Bubba Wallace (137.438 mph) from 23XI Racing, completing the top five.
Austin Cindric, another Team Penske driver, took the sixth spot with a speed of 137.400 mph. Ross Chastain was the only Chevrolet driver in the top ten, finishing seventh with a matching speed of 137.400 mph. The top ten was rounded out by Christopher Bell (137.270 mph), Michael McDowell (137.141 mph), and Martin Truex Jr. (137.124 mph).
Kyle Larson returned to the track with Hendrick Motorsports’ No. 5 Chevrolet after missing the rain-shortened Coca-Cola 600 to compete in the Indianapolis 500. He placed 24th with a best lap of 136.265 mph and is awaiting a decision from NASCAR regarding a playoff eligibility waiver.
Despite the weather challenges, the session concluded without major incidents. Chase Briscoe had a minor mishap, sliding into the infield grass while practicing pit entry. All 36 teams participated, with Noah Gragson completing the most laps (37) and Erik Jones running the fewest.
The full-field practice session, a strategic move by NASCAR, ensured fairness and preparation for all teams ahead of the weekend’s race. The valuable track time gained during this session is expected to contribute to an exciting race at World Wide Technology Raceway, with Lando Norris leading the charge.
