{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"NASCAR 2026 Season Preview with Bob Pockrass","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/nascar-2026-season-preview-with-bob-pockrass","audioUrl":"https://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/pdst.fm/e/traffic.megaphone.fm/FOXM1824118266.mp3?updated=1770690996","description":"Kevin Harvick, Kaitlyn Vincie, and Mamba Smith are joined by FOX Sports Motorsports Reporter Bob Pockrass on this episode of Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour, beginning with a reminder about the upcoming free live show ahead of the Daytona 500 at the NASCAR Fan Experience Set. The crew then highlights the new NASCAR Studios and FOX Sports documentary We’ve Lost Dale Earnhardt: 25 Years Later, premiering Feb 12 on FS1, reflecting on the lasting impact of Dale Earnhardt and the 2001 Daytona 500. From there, the show dives into a wide-ranging preview of the 2026 NASCAR season, discussing the fallout from the charter settlement and leadership changes, the return of the Chase championship format, Kyle Larson entering the year as defending champion, and Connor Zilisch’s full-time Cup Series debut. The conversation explores which teams are trending up, which drivers face the most pressure, how open the field feels compared to recent seasons, and who could define the year ahead, before wrapping up with bold predictions and championship picks as the group officially looks toward Daytona and beyond.\n\n0:00 - Intro\n\n1:42 - LIVE Show Ahead Of Daytona\n\n2:50 - Dale Earnhardt Documentary\n\n8:40 - Season Preview\n\n40:00 - Season Predictions\nLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices"},"annotations":[{"startTime":216.3,"endTime":218.6,"type":"brand","title":"NASCAR","url":"/glossary/nascar","quote":"I'm a rookie in Daytona 500. I was eight years old.","canonicalId":"brand:nascar","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"NASCAR, or the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, is a popular motorsport organization in the United States known for its stock car racing events, including the Daytona 500. It features a unique set of rules and a specific style of racing.","simplifiedExplanation":"NASCAR is a type of car racing that happens on oval tracks. It's very popular in the U.S., and they have many races throughout the year, including the Daytona 500."}},{"startTime":216.3,"endTime":218.6,"type":"concept","title":"Daytona 500","url":"/glossary/daytona-500","quote":"I'm a rookie in Daytona 500. I was eight years old.","canonicalId":"concept:daytona-500","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Daytona 500 is a prestigious NASCAR race held annually at the Daytona International Speedway in Florida. It's considered one of the most important events in the NASCAR calendar, often referred to as 'The Great American Race.'","simplifiedExplanation":"The Daytona 500 is a famous car race that happens every year in Daytona Beach, Florida. It's a big deal in the world of NASCAR racing."}},{"startTime":482.7,"endTime":494.1,"type":"term","title":"HANS device","url":"/glossary/hans-device","quote":"...that's we started with the Hutchins device, the Hans device, all those things that had just kind of been ignored, you know, up until that point.","canonicalId":"term:hans-device","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The HANS device, which stands for Head and Neck Support device, is a safety feature used in motorsports to prevent head and neck injuries during a crash. It works by securing the driver's helmet to the car, reducing the risk of whiplash and other injuries.","simplifiedExplanation":"The HANS device is a safety tool that helps protect drivers' heads and necks in case of an accident. It keeps the helmet attached to the car, which helps prevent injuries when the car crashes."}},{"startTime":482.7,"endTime":494.1,"type":"term","title":"soft wall","url":"/glossary/soft-wall","quote":"...that's when the softwall conversation started, that's we started with the Hutchins device, the Hans device...","canonicalId":"term:soft-wall","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Soft walls are a type of barrier used in racetracks designed to absorb impact during crashes, reducing the force transferred to the driver. They are made from materials that compress upon impact, providing a safer environment for drivers.","simplifiedExplanation":"Soft walls are special barriers at racetracks that help keep drivers safe during crashes. They are made to cushion the impact, so drivers don't get hurt as badly if they hit the wall."}},{"startTime":958.6,"endTime":965.6,"type":"term","title":"DVP","url":"/glossary/dvp","quote":"And, you know, you talk about DVP and you talk about getting your car back on the racetrack, you're going to see that a lot more.","canonicalId":"term:dvp","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"DVP stands for 'Design Verification Plan', which is a process used in automotive engineering to ensure that a vehicle's design meets its intended performance and safety standards before production.","simplifiedExplanation":"DVP is a plan used to check if a car's design works well and is safe before it's made. It helps engineers make sure everything is right."}},{"startTime":985.4,"endTime":987.7,"type":"term","title":"DNFs","url":"/glossary/dnfs","quote":"Yeah. The DNFs, you're not going to want that.","canonicalId":"term:dnfs","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"DNF stands for 'Did Not Finish', a term used in racing to indicate that a car was unable to complete the race due to mechanical failure or other issues.","simplifiedExplanation":"DNF means 'Did Not Finish', which is used in racing when a car can't finish the race because it broke down or had problems."}},{"startTime":987.7,"endTime":989.4,"type":"term","title":"tip top","url":"/glossary/tip-top","quote":"Everyone's engines need to be tip top.","canonicalId":"term:tip-top","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The term 'tip top' refers to something being in excellent condition or perfect working order, particularly in the context of engines or vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"'Tip top' means something is in very good shape or working perfectly, especially when talking about car engines."}},{"startTime":1387.0,"endTime":1390.0,"type":"term","title":"road course","url":"/glossary/road-course","quote":"...the most with Connor is to see his evolution of his road course stuff and him and SVG going at it on the road course...","canonicalId":"term:road-course","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A road course is a type of racetrack that features a series of turns and straights, typically used for racing cars. Unlike oval tracks, road courses require drivers to navigate various corners, which tests their handling and braking skills.","simplifiedExplanation":"A road course is a racetrack with many turns and straight sections, unlike a simple oval track. It challenges drivers to handle their cars through different types of corners."}},{"startTime":1398.0,"endTime":1401.0,"type":"term","title":"performance standpoint","url":"/glossary/performance-standpoint","quote":"...where will their cars be from a performance standpoint and on a week to week basis?","canonicalId":"term:performance-standpoint","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Performance standpoint refers to evaluating a vehicle's capabilities, such as speed, handling, and acceleration, especially in competitive situations like racing. This assessment helps determine how well a car will perform against others on the track.","simplifiedExplanation":"Performance standpoint means looking at how well a car can drive, especially in races. It includes things like speed and how it handles turns."}},{"startTime":1409.6,"endTime":1412.9,"type":"term","title":"Xfinity side","url":"/glossary/xfinity-side","quote":"...a little taste of it last year on the Xfinity side. So it'll be interesting to see if that's where it goes on the cup side...","canonicalId":"term:xfinity-side","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Xfinity Series is a second-tier NASCAR racing series, often seen as a stepping stone for drivers aiming to compete in the top-tier NASCAR Cup Series. It features a mix of established drivers and up-and-coming talent.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Xfinity Series is a lower-level NASCAR racing series where many drivers compete before moving up to the main NASCAR Cup Series. It helps them gain experience."}},{"startTime":1540.54,"endTime":1549.1,"type":"car","title":"Buick Grand National","url":"/cars/buick/grand-national","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/07/1987_Buick_Grand_National.jpg","quote":"...different than what he's ever had coming from the Grand National series.  So it's going to be a lot, a lot differe...","canonicalId":"car:buick:grand-national","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Buick Grand National is a high-performance version of the Buick Regal, produced in the 1980s, particularly known for its turbocharged V6 engine and distinctive black exterior. It became an iconic muscle car of its era, celebrated for its impressive acceleration and unique styling. The Grand National is often discussed for its role in the American automotive landscape and its cult following among car enthusiasts.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Buick Grand National is a fast car made by Buick in the 1980s, known for its powerful engine and sleek black look. It was popular for being one of the quickest cars of its time, and many people still admire it today for its unique style and performance. It's a favorite among car fans and collectors.","imageAttribution":"MeanBuicks at English Wikipedia (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":1945.0,"endTime":1950.0,"type":"brand","title":"Toyota","url":"/glossary/toyota","quote":"...their mile and a half program is just not where Chevrolet and the Toyotas have been on the mile and a half...","canonicalId":"brand:toyota","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Toyota is a Japanese automobile manufacturer recognized for its reliable and fuel-efficient vehicles. The brand is also heavily involved in motorsports, competing in various racing series.","simplifiedExplanation":"Toyota is a popular car brand from Japan, known for making reliable cars. They also participate in racing events, which is why they are mentioned here."}},{"startTime":1945.0,"endTime":1950.0,"type":"brand","title":"Chevrolet","url":"/glossary/chevrolet","quote":"...their mile and a half program is just not where Chevrolet and the Toyotas have been on the mile and a half...","canonicalId":"brand:chevrolet","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Chevrolet is an American automobile brand known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including trucks, SUVs, and performance cars. It is a major player in the automotive industry and has a strong presence in motorsports.","simplifiedExplanation":"Chevrolet is a well-known car brand in the United States, famous for making cars and trucks. They are also involved in racing, which is why they are mentioned here."}},{"startTime":1972.0,"endTime":1976.0,"type":"brand","title":"Ford","url":"/glossary/ford","quote":"...it's just a, you know, it's an interesting scenario for the Fords in general...","canonicalId":"brand:ford","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Ford is an American multinational automaker known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including trucks, SUVs, and performance cars. The brand has a significant history in motorsports, particularly in NASCAR.","simplifiedExplanation":"Ford is a famous American car company that makes many types of vehicles, including trucks and sports cars. They are also involved in racing, which is why they are mentioned here."}},{"startTime":1972.0,"endTime":1976.0,"type":"company","title":"Penske","url":"/glossary/penske","quote":"...or more of a Ford thing or a Penske thing?","canonicalId":"company:penske","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Penske Corporation is an American company known for its involvement in automotive retail, manufacturing, and motorsports. It operates various racing teams and has a significant presence in NASCAR.","simplifiedExplanation":"Penske is a company that is involved in car racing and also sells cars. They have their own racing teams and are well-known in the automotive industry."}},{"startTime":2210.0,"endTime":2211.2,"type":"company","title":"Hendrick Motorsports","url":"/glossary/hendrick-motorsports","quote":"It's Hendrik motorsports. They're going to get it figured out and they're going to get the balance of their cars.","canonicalId":"company:hendrick-motorsports","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Hendrick Motorsports is a prominent NASCAR team known for its competitive performance and multiple championships. They field several cars in the NASCAR Cup Series and are recognized for their engineering and racing strategies.","simplifiedExplanation":"Hendrick Motorsports is a well-known racing team in NASCAR. They have a reputation for being very successful and competitive in the sport."}},{"startTime":2211.2,"endTime":2213.9,"type":"term","title":"balance of their cars","url":"/glossary/balance-of-their-cars","quote":"They're going to get it figured out and they're going to get the balance of their cars. These, these cars are so finicky.","canonicalId":"term:balance-of-their-cars","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The 'balance of their cars' refers to how well a race car handles, particularly how weight is distributed across the vehicle. Proper balance is crucial for optimal performance on different types of racetracks.","simplifiedExplanation":"The balance of a car is how well it handles and drives. It’s important for making sure the car performs well on the track, especially in races."}},{"startTime":2215.9,"endTime":2215.9,"type":"term","title":"short track","url":"/glossary/short-track","quote":"I don't know if it's going to be, it didn't look like it was going to be on a short track.","canonicalId":"term:short-track","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A short track is a type of racetrack that is typically less than one mile in length. Racing on short tracks often requires different strategies and car setups compared to larger tracks.","simplifiedExplanation":"A short track is a smaller racetrack where cars race. These tracks are usually less than a mile long and have different challenges compared to bigger tracks."}},{"startTime":2224.7,"endTime":2224.7,"type":"term","title":"mile and a half racetrack","url":"/glossary/mile-and-a-half-racetrack","quote":"But what, what's going to happen with that car on a mile and a half racetrack?","canonicalId":"term:mile-and-a-half-racetrack","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A mile and a half racetrack refers to a specific length of track that is commonly used in NASCAR. These tracks often combine elements of both short tracks and larger speedways, affecting car setup and racing strategies.","simplifiedExplanation":"A mile and a half racetrack is a type of racing track that is 1.5 miles long. It’s a common length for NASCAR races and requires special car adjustments to perform well."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"FOX Sports","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/nascar-2026-season-preview-with-bob-pockrass/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}