Racing teams found success with Goodyear's option tire during its debut at Phoenix Raceway, with the softer compound providing enhanced performance and strategic flexibility.

"Everything went according to plan at Phoenix, and the option tire worked very well," confirmed Goodyear NASCAR project manager Mark Keto. The red-lettered sidewall tires, previously used at North Wilkesboro and Richmond, allowed teams to gain track position over competitors using standard prime tires.

Teams received one set of option tires for practice and two sets for race day. The strategy proved particularly effective throughout different stages of the race:

• Ryan Preece demonstrated early success, climbing into the top 10 within 12 laps of installing the options, ultimately finishing third in the first stage
• Joey Logano used them to recover from a penalty, racing to the lead in the second stage
• Austin Cindric, Erik Jones, and Ty Dillon all made significant gains in the final stage using the option tires

Most teams saved their final set of options for late-race performance, suggesting optimal strategy involved timing their use for maximum impact.

Driver feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Chris Buescher praised the tire's performance, while Zane Smith called it "the most fun Phoenix race" he'd experienced. Justin Haley went further, suggesting the option tire should be used at all tracks due to improved handling characteristics.

Goodyear will continue development with a three-car test at Phoenix on Monday, featuring Austin Dillon (Chevrolet), Josh Berry (Ford), and Tyler Reddick (Toyota), with the goal of making this the primary tire for November's championship race.

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