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CONCORD, NC – MAY 23: Mark Martin, driver of the #55 Aaron’s Dream Machine Toyota, sits in his car during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 23, 2013 in Concord, North Carolina. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images)
NASCAR continues to review its championship format as discussions about the playoff system move into a critical phase. During a recent appearance on The Kenny Wallace Show, Mark Martin spoke openly about his role in a NASCAR advisory committee and his support for a full-season points championship.
Mark Martin shared his comments as part of ongoing meetings formed after the 2025 legal settlements between NASCAR and race teams. Those committees are reviewing potential changes for the 2026 season and beyond. His remarks focused on feedback he has heard from fans and the possibility of replacing the current playoff format with a season-long points system.
Mark Martin’s role in the NASCAR committee talks
During the podcast, Martin explained that he raised concerns early in the discussions. “I’m not super optimistic about where that was involved in the committee, Martin said. He added that he spoke up because NASCAR asked him to serve and because of the feedback he regularly hears from fans.”
“And because everywhere I go and every fan I talk to hates playoffs, Martin said. I owe my entire career to the race fans who supported me so much. So I stood up for the fans.”
Mark Martin also confirmed that a full-season points format has been discussed. “Eventually, a full season was on the table for me, he said.” “And I don’t think we’ll get it, but I am very impressed that it’s actually a consideration.”
Background on the playoff format debate
NASCAR introduced its elimination-style playoff system in 2014. The format uses a 10-race postseason to determine the champion. NASCAR has credited the system with increasing late-season drama and producing standout moments on track.
At the same time, critics argue the format reduces the value of regular-season performance. Drivers can win multiple races or score consistent finishes and still fail to reach the final championship round.
Before 2014, NASCAR awarded championships using cumulative points across the full 36-race schedule. That system rewarded consistency, reliability, and long-term performance. Martin’s career is often cited in this discussion. He earned 40 Cup Series wins and finished second in the standings five times without winning a championship.
The 2025 season renewed attention on the format after Kyle Larson won his second title under the playoff system. The dramatic finale saw Kyle Larson secure the championship at Phoenix Raceway after a late-race caution and a strategic two-tire call allowed him to pass Denny Hamlin, who had led most of the race.
What happens next for the 2026 season
NASCAR officials have not announced any confirmed changes to the championship format. However, committee discussions have included full-season proposals, according to Mark Martin’s comments.
Any move to a full-season format would require changes to the points structure, scheduling, and sponsor planning. NASCAR continues to evaluate these factors as part of its long-term strategy.
As the sport prepares for the 2026 season, which will begin with the Daytona 500, the championship format remains under review. Martin’s comments confirm that a full-season points system is being discussed, even if no final decision has been made.
Dogli Wilberforce is a sports writer who covers NASCAR, Formula 1 and IndyCar Series for Heavy Sports. With bylines at Total Apex Sports and Last Word on Sports, Wilberforce has built a reputation for delivering timely, engaging coverage that blends sharp analysis with accessible storytelling. Wilberforce has covered everything from major football transfers to fight-night drama, bringing readers the insight and context behind the headlines. More about Dogli Wilberforce
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