Heading into the fifth race of the 2025 NASCAR season, Kyle Busch has admitted he has no idea what his tire strategy will be at Phoenix Raceway.
Veteran journalist Bob Pockrass shared the update via social media, revealing that the Richard Childress Racing driver wanted more soft tires for the race but will have to make do with what’s available.
Kyle Busch Reveals Uncertainty About Phoenix Tire Strategy
With the Shriners Children’s 500 in Phoenix less than an hour away, teams are finalizing preparations. Now, it’s up to the drivers to navigate traffic through 312 laps while managing fuel and tire wear.
Race officials have limited teams to two sets of reds (the softest and fastest tire compound), making this a battle of strategy.
One of the most aggressive drivers on the grid, Busch, said that two sets aren’t enough and that he would have preferred more. Because of this, Busch admits he has no clear strategy.
“I have no clue what the strategy is right now, yet. There are only two sets of reds. So, that’s not enough reds for me,” Busch said via Bob Pockrass on X.
Kyle Busch isn't sure of the tire strategy he will employ starting 15th. He wishes he had more of the option softer tires (teams get two sets for the race). Coverage starts at 2p ET on FS1. Green at 3:41p ET. @NASCARONFOX pic.twitter.com/3GDuekP8f2
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) March 9, 2025
The 39-year-old further clarified that he feels much better driving on reds and would use them all the time if possible. Nevertheless, given the current tire allotment, Busch and his team will have to adjust accordingly.
He also discussed saving one set of reds for the final stage, knowing that most teams will likely do the same.
With the race reaching its closing laps, every team will try to maximize their stage points. The front-runners will aim to hold position and push for a top finish. Busch won’t want to fall behind, meaning he could strategically save a set of reds for the final stage.
However, it all depends on how other teams manage their tire sets. If Rowdy finds himself in position for a late-race charge, expect him to put the red tires on early and go for the win.
