Dale Earnhardt Jr. calls for NASCAR to keep racing on rain tires amid red flag at New Hampshire

With 82 laps to go in Sunday’s USA TODAY 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, NASCAR has brought out the red flag with rain drops falling on the racetrack and more weather expected to roll in.

NASCAR had prepared for rain all week, even bringing rain tires to be used if needed. Though the weather hasn’t yet picked up, NASCAR hasn’t permitted racing to continue with the rain tires. This has left Dale Earnhardt Jr. confused, who believes that the field should be back under green until the bad stuff arrives.

“No umbrellas in the interviews with @TylerReddick,” Earnhardt wrote on X. “Seems the exact scenario for this particular rain tire. I’m not there. Feels like we should be racing tho.”

Earnhardt’s feelings have been echoed by both drivers and NASCAR insiders, both wondering why NASCAR brought the rain tires in the first place.

“What rain tires…,” Bubba Wallace tweeted.

Jeff Gluck of The Athletic wants to know why NASCAR won’t just call the race if they clearly don’t want to use the rain tires with the race past the halfway mark.

“Look, I’m listening to the booth’s arguments against using these tires in this scenario. But if that’s the case…then just call it. It’s over then,” Gluck wrote. “Why is everyone waiting? Either use the tires or call it. No? What am I missing? Waiting while there could be racing seems crazy.”

NASCAR spokesperson explains controversial hold decision amid rain at New Hampshire

Mike Forde, a spokesperson for the sanctioning body, offered some clarity as for why racing hasn’t continued on the wet weather tires.

“For clarity’s sake, when it comes to ovals, these cars do not have wipers or flaps,” Forde wrote on X. “NASCAR has been consistent on not racing on ovals if there’s rain and/or the track could have spray for safety purposes.”

Asked what’s the point in having the wet weather tires, Forde had the following response:

“Great question. Helps NASCAR get back to racing quicker,” Forde said. “No longer need a completely dry track to get em back on track … nothing dries a track better than 30+ race cars. Wet weather tires helps make that happen.”