Kevin Harvick Has His “Choppy Hands” Picked Apart by Joe Gibbs Darkhorse as He Learned From the Veteran

In the recent NASCAR Cup Series race at Martinsville Speedway, Kevin Harvick secured a hard-fought victory for Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR). However, his win was not without controversy, as his driving style, specifically his "choppy hands," came under scrutiny from Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) driver, Martin Truex Jr., and his team at Joe Gibbs Darkhorse.

Harvick's driving technique, which involves frequent small adjustments to the steering wheel, was analyzed in detail by JGR using SportsMetrics Technology (SMT) data. SMT is a data analysis tool used extensively in NASCAR to record and evaluate every move made by drivers during a race. The data can provide valuable insights into a driver's performance, including their speed, acceleration, braking, and steering inputs.

Truex and his team believed that Harvick's choppy hand movements were causing unnecessary wear and tear on the tires, potentially giving him an unfair advantage. They argued that such driving style could lead to more pit stops for tire changes, which could impact the race's outcome.

However, Harvick defended his driving style, stating that it was a technique he had used for years and was essential for his driving style and comfort in the car. He also pointed out that other drivers, including Truex himself, had used similar techniques in the past without any issue.

Despite the controversy, NASCAR officials deemed Harvck's driving style legal, and he went on to win the race, securing his spot in the Championship 4 at Phoenix Raceway. The incident highlights the importance of data analysis in NASCAR and the ongoing debate about the role of technology in the sport.

It's important to note that NASCAR's rules regarding driver input allow for a certain degree of freedom, but any actions that give an unfair advantage or compromise safety are strictly prohibited. The use of data analysis tools like SMT is becoming increasingly common in NASCAR, and teams are constantly looking for ways to gain an edge over their competitors while adhering to the rules.

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Kevin Harvick's choppy hand movements and the analysis of his driving style using SMT data is a prime example of how technology plays a crucial role in NASCAR racing, both on and off the track. While some may view it as a blessing, others see it as a curse, but one thing is for sure, data analysis is here to stay in NASCAR, and teams will continue to use it to gain an edge and improve their performance.