What is NASCAR's new championship format for 2026?

NASCAR is returning to a 10-race 'The Chase' format in 2026, featuring the top 16 drivers without eliminations.

How will NASCAR reward race wins in 'The Chase'?

Race victories will be highly incentivized, with winning drivers earning 55 points, an increase from 40.

When did NASCAR last use 'The Chase' format?

The original 'The Chase' format was introduced 22 years ago and was used until periodic tweaks began in 2014.

Home / Sports / NASCAR Revives 'The Chase' for 2026 Championship

NASCAR Revives 'The Chase' for 2026 Championship

12 Jan

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Summary

NASCAR returns to a 10-race championship format called 'The Chase' in 2026.
The new format will feature the top 16 drivers with no mid-season eliminations.
Winning will be highly incentivized with increased points for race victories.

NASCAR Revives 'The Chase' for 2026 Championship

In a major shift for the 2026 season, NASCAR is bringing back 'The Chase,' its original championship-deciding format. This new 10-race system will include the top 16 drivers from the regular season, eliminating the periodic driver cutoffs that had drawn criticism. The primary goal is to reward driver and team performance in every race, honoring the sport's traditions while reconnecting with fan passion.

The revamped format aims to bolster the significance of each event on the schedule. Regular-season wins will no longer guarantee a playoff spot, emphasizing consistency throughout the year. To further incentivize aggressive racing and strong performances, race victories will now be worth 55 points, a substantial increase from the previous 40 points.

This decision follows an extensive review involving drivers, owners, manufacturers, and fans, seeking to address years of evolving fan discourse. The driver with the most points after the postseason finale will be crowned champion across all three NASCAR national series, marking a return to a more straightforward championship pursuit.