The 2025 Season 4 build didn’t just tweak the Gen4 NASCAR car — it transformed the way drafting works. With the new aero model introducing stronger sidedrafts, a more realistic “air bubble,” and harsher penalties for losing the pack, survival at superspeedways now requires a whole new playbook.
Here are some key tips to help you thrive in the updated Gen4 draft.
1. Respect the Sidedraft
The sidedraft is now more powerful — and more dangerous. Use it wisely:
- On offense: Slide alongside a rival’s rear quarter panel to slow them down and give yourself a run.
- On defense: Expect others to do it to you. Anticipate the drag and adjust your line so you don’t get freight-trained.
- Don’t overdo it: Staying locked on someone’s quarter too long can stall your momentum, too.
2. Don’t Lose the Pack
Falling out of line used to be recoverable — now, it’s often a race-ender.
- Stay tucked in whenever possible.
- If you get shuffled out, look for a hole quickly — don’t wait for the draft to “pull you back in.”
- Watch fuel strategy. Running in clean air can burn more gas, so balancing pack position with pit windows matters.
3. Manage the Bubble
There’s now a clearer sense of airflow between cars. Think of it as invisible real estate:
- Get too close to the wrong spot on another car and you’ll lose momentum.
- Conversely, hit the sweet spot and you’ll feel the tow pull you forward.
- Practice finding that invisible bubble in testing sessions — knowing how close is too close is the new skill gap.
4. Work the Lanes
Multi-lane racing is more alive than ever.
- The inside line still provides track position, but the outside lane can generate big runs with smart drafting.
- Middle lanes are risky but can move forward if coordinated.
- Don’t just ride — be proactive in choosing the lane with momentum.
5. Adapt Your Mentality
The old Gen4 model let drivers sit and ride until the final laps. Not anymore. Now:
- Positioning matters earlier. If you’re not in the top 10 with 10 laps to go, your chances shrink.
- Draft partners are key. Communicate in leagues or official races — solo runs are harder to make stick.
- Expect chaos. The new model creates more lead changes and more aggressive moves. Be ready for sudden shifts in pack dynamics.
The Gen4 update rewards racecraft. It’s not enough to draft blindly or camp out in line until the white flag. The best drivers will be those who can balance aggression with awareness, knowing when to use the sidedraft, how to protect momentum, and how to stay glued to the pack.
Survive the learning curve, and you’ll find that this is the most exciting Gen4 racing iRacing has ever offered.
