By T.J. Buffenbarger
Hartford, MI — (September 4, 2015) — Sprints on Dirt announced major rule changes for the upcoming 2016 season during the drivers meeting at Hartford Speedway Park on Friday. In a an outline handed out on Friday SOD owner John Naida announced the various rule changes that include no engine rules, no minimum weight requirement, and new spec right and left rear tires with 30% less tread width. SOD will retain current wing and safety rules with the new package and cars must appear like a conventional sprint car.
Sprint on Dirt has utilized rules based on the American Sprint Car Series since 1997, but has decided to go in a different direction.
“Controlling costs is a concern at every level in any type of racing. For several years SOD, as a headline series, has been in compliance with numerous 360 cubic inch sprint car organizations by adhering to ASCS rules,” stated in a SOD press release. “However, 2015 ASCS changes and pending future changes make this approach unrealistic and problematic. The dilemma became how to abandon these rules while not becoming an isolated, one of a kind restricted organization; SOD has found a way.”
SOD officials hope rule changes will open the series up for more cars to compete and offer closer racing, citing a history of innovation driving this change.
“From its inception over 35 years ago, Sprints on Dirt has been a leader and innovator. Several things commonplace in sprint car racing today were originated by SOD,” stated in the release. “It is a good bet that this will be another one. We are determined to ensure that sprint car racing not only survives, but prospers and grows.”