Joe Gibbs’ Big-Mouth Driver Applauds NASCAR’s New “Black and White” Rule After Falling Victim to Nature’s Wrath

Further emphasizing how the weather and darkness affected the Chicago Street Race last year, the JGR driver said, “Guys in the back half of the field just took a 100% gamble on what NASCAR was going to do, and it rewarded them because they won on the gamble, and the guys that were trying to race the race properly – to the full distance – got bit by it. Now, at least, if that situation comes up, we will all know that the race is getting white-flagged at X time on the clock. I think having a black-and-white rule is always good.“

During the interview, as the conversation took multiple turns, the PRN journalist, Dough Ruce, couldn’t resist asking if they could call the new rule, the “Christopher Bell Rule” already. A happy Bell, with a smile, replied, “I would love that.” As he gears up to lead the team in 2025, his expectations for the Loudon weekend are sky-high. But what about the weather? Will it be on his side?

Weather Gods are in a different mood already!

Rain is not new to New Hampshire Motor Speedway, and it looks like it is no different this year as well. With rain already hitting the track ahead of the race weekend and forecasts predicting thunderstorms, NASCAR has adjusted its schedule and rules to prepare for the worst. As the Xfinity Series practice session on Friday was canceled due to heavy thundershowers, it was expected to be the same on Saturday and Sunday. But now it is confirmed.

Bob Pockrass, like always being the first one to inform whatever goes on in the industry, was fast enough to report the weather update as well. In a post shared a few hours ago on X, he wrote, “Have rain tires to race in damp (not rain). Cars have defoggers, no wipers (use RainX). Likely 60-75 min to dry, poss less to run in damp. No lights. Sundown 8:30p ET. Any decision to move start time by 1hr would be made w/24-hr notice. If Mon, time TBD. Last yr: Noon ET.”

Rain and darkness have already caused disruptions at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, with Xfinity qualifying now canceled. This unexpected turn of events puts Cole Custer on the pole, bringing some good news for the reigning NASCAR Xfinity Series champion. Reflecting on his NASCAR future, Custer also hinted at his Cup Series debut, saying, “It would be a dream come true to run that Cup car,” referring to the newly announced Haas Factory Team entry for 2025.

For drivers like Chase Briscoe and Cole Custer, 2025 is shaping up to be a standout season. NASCAR’s ongoing efforts to minimize uncertainties and disruptions caused by bad weather are commendable. However, it remains to be seen how the weather-affected weekend at Loudon will unfold.