CONCORD, N.C. (NEXSTAR) — As race fans gear up for the highly anticipated Roval 400 race day at Charlotte Motor Speedway, there's a lot on the line. Before Sunday's main event, the Xfinity Series will feature an elimination race that will trim the playoff field from 12 drivers to just eight. This race will take place on a newly reconfigured Roval track, adding even more excitement to an already thrilling weekend.
Kaulig Racing's AJ Allmendinger returns as the defending champion after winning last year's Cup Series race at Charlotte. However, he comes into Saturday’s race on the playoff bubble, needing a strong performance to secure his spot. Allmendinger is no stranger to success at the Roval, having won his last four starts in the Xfinity Series on this track.
Formidable competitor and teammate Shane van Gisbergen is also expected to be a top contender, despite making his debut on the Roval this weekend. His performance will be one to watch as he navigates the new track layout.
Sammy Smith, driving the No. 8 Chevrolet for JR Motorsports, enters the weekend with less pressure after his impressive win at Talladega vaulted him into the final eight of the Xfinity Series postseason. However, Smith is still determined to maintain his momentum and finish the season strong.
"Definitely - going into the Roval is a sigh of relief, but I think, like I said, we're going to have to win again to advance to Phoenix I think. So hopefully we can do that and then really focus on the round of eight," said Smith.
One of the biggest changes this year at Charlotte's Roval is the new layout, featuring significant alterations to Turns 5, 6, and 7. The hairpin at Turn 7, in particular, is expected to be a game-changer.