NASCAR has officially announced a significant change to its championship format, returning to a system reminiscent of the pre-Playoff era. On April 10, 2023, during a press conference, NASCAR President Steve O’Donnell shared the details of the revised championship structure alongside Hall of Famers Mark Martin and Dale Earnhardt Jr.. The new format will maintain a 26-race regular season, followed by a ten-race postseason featuring the top 16 drivers in points standings.
The previous “win-and-in” approach, which allowed drivers to secure a playoff spot by winning a race, has been eliminated. Additionally, the complexity of elimination rounds and playoff points has been removed. Under the new rules, drivers will earn points based solely on their race finishes, with winners receiving 55 points and stage points remaining in play. The champion will be determined by the total points accumulated by the end of the final race at Homestead-Miami Speedway in November.
This shift marks a return to the championship format used from 2004 to 2013, known as the Chase. This system is designed to reward drivers for their performance over the entire season rather than relying on the outcomes of a single race. Chase Elliott, a current driver who participated in the announcement, expressed approval for the change, stating that it allows for a champion to emerge based on their yearlong efforts rather than a potentially random conclusion in the final race.
Many drivers, including Ryan Blaney, expressed nostalgic sentiments about the return to the previous format. Blaney remarked, “It just feels right,” emphasizing the simplicity and clarity of the new system. The changes aim to appeal to both core fans and new audiences by reducing complexity and enhancing the overall viewing experience.
The overhaul follows an extensive review process initiated during the February 2025 Daytona 500 weekend. During that time, NASCAR formed an exploratory committee that included executives, current drivers, and media members to discuss potential changes. The committee aimed to address concerns raised by fans who felt disconnected from the direction NASCAR had taken in recent years.
Mark Martin, a long-time advocate for a return to traditional scoring systems, played a pivotal role in shaping the new format. His passionate advocacy during committee meetings resonated with many, ultimately influencing the final decision. At the press conference, O’Donnell humorously recalled the initial resistance to Martin’s ideas, stating, “We wanted to throw Mark out of the room.” However, Martin’s perspective proved invaluable in pushing for a format that reflects the sport’s roots.
Throughout its 77-year history, NASCAR has consistently refined its championship format. Notably, legendary driver Richard Petty secured seven championships across six different points systems. Petty’s approach was straightforward: “I just tried to win every week, and if the math worked out at the end, they gave me a big trophy.”
As NASCAR moves forward with this new format, it aims to create a sense of unity among fans while celebrating the sport’s rich history. O’Donnell acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating, “It won’t be enough for some, but I am so happy.” The changes are seen as a critical step in reconnecting with the fanbase and fostering enthusiasm for the upcoming seasons.
The anticipation for the next championship is palpable, as drivers and fans alike prepare for a season that promises to honor tradition while striving for relevance in the modern sports landscape. As Martin encouraged at the press conference, “Come on back. We’re headed in the right direction.”
