Testing, Qualifying Changes Expected For 2013

For the first time since 2008, NASCAR will allow Sprint Cup Series team to test at tracks that host events in NASCAR's top three touring series. NASCAR vice president of competition Robin Pemberton confirmed Saturday at Dover International Speedway that each Sprint Cup Series organization -- regardless of how many cars it fields -- will be allowed four tests of its choosing at NASCAR tracks in 2013.

"It's up to them to pick where they want to go," Pemberton said. "We feel like it's time to open that up and allow the teams to manage their testing and get back on facilities that host our events. You'll see that as the year unfolds, that teams will be moving around the countryside."

The four tests allocated to each organization are in addition to the Preseason Thunder test, which will be will be conducted by NASCAR during the second week of January.

In  a related story, NASCAR is considering moving some Sprint Cup Series qualifying sessions to Friday afternoons next season. Officials spent much of the weekend consulting with drivers, crew chiefs and team owners at Dover International Speedway, seeking input on possible changes including Friday qualifying and a Saturday, post-qualifying practice session.

The change would give teams more time to work on race setups on Saturday, while also giving track promoters a significant Saturday Cup practice and more time for driver and fan garage interaction. NASCAR is expected to announce several 2013 competition changes sometime next month.