The Daytona 500 could have higher speeds, wilder races and closer finishes in 2011. Drivers testing Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway for the first time since it was repaved agreed that NASCAR’s premier event will feature tighter packs — cars running three wide at nearly 200 mph — and increase the possibility for breathtaking wrecks.

“It’s going to be a lot tighter packs than I’ve ever seen,” defending Daytona 500 winner Jamie McMurray said. “It’s certainly going to be more Talladega-type, really close, restrictor-plate racing. … You’ve got to hope that you’re going to make it to the end because the odds (of big wrecks) are going to be really good, I’d say.”

The sport’s most famous track recently completed its second repaving project, the first since 1979, and drivers turned laps Wednesday and Thursday as part of a tire test for the race in February. The result is a smoother track that causes less tire wear, creates faster laps and more tight-knit racing. (AP)

Ganassi adds drivers • Graham Rahal has a new full-time ride, and Chip Ganassi has two more drivers to chase a fourth straight IndyCar points title. Ganassi says Rahal and Charlie Kimball will run full-time on his team next season. Ganassi already has two-time Indy 500 winner Dario Franchitti and two-time points champ Scott Dixon signed. (AP)