This season has seen instances of fewer cars entered than the rules allow. Considering this year’s field was reduced by three to 40 cars, having a surplus was rare.
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Also of concern this weekend: Rain is expected Friday and Saturday. Worst of all, thunderstorms on Friday. However, Sunday promises to be sunny and comfortable.
It had been years since NASCAR’s primary national series ran a race without a full field. But this year’s installation of the charter system and subsequent reduction of money for non-charter teams cut into the list of teams willing to bring an extra car or unable to handle the expense.
Under the charter system, 36 teams are guaranteed entry in each Cup race and a share of prize money. Non-charter teams race on their own dime.
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This week’s race, the Toyota Owners 400, will begin about 1 p.m. ET Sunday. On-track activities begin at 11 a.m. ET Friday, with qualifying beginning at 4:15 ET that afternoon.
This week brings the return of Tony Stewart, who missed the season’s first eight races because of a broken back.
Here is the entry list.
