NASCAR is changing the way it crowns a champion.

The stock car racing series announced a new championship format for 2026 on Monday, and its a blast from the past.

Similar to the system it used from 2004 to 2013, NASCAR will have a playoff called “The Chase” where the eligible driver with the most points over the final 10 races is the champion. There are subtle differences, however, including how many drivers will qualify and how points are awarded.

From 2014 to 2025, NASCAR used a convoluted elimination-style format with a one-race championship finale featuring four drivers. That system drew criticism from drivers and fans alike, as racing has traditionally been about sustained excellence rather than a more random one-race result (considering variables like mechanical failures, pit stops, other drivers, etc.).

In 2026, the 10-race Chase will air on NBC and Peacock (3 races) and USA Network (7 races). The new season begins with the Daytona 500, Sunday, Feb. 15, on FOX.

Here’s everything to know about the new Cup Series format:

What is the 2026 NASCAR season structure?

The first 26 races will be the regular season, followed by the 10-race Chase for the championship.

How many drivers make The Chase?

The top 16 drivers in the points standings after the regular season will make The Chase.

There is no way to earn an automatic berth, as there was under the most recent format by winning a race.

How are points awarded in NASCAR?

There’s a slight change to the points system for 2026, with more reward for winning. Wins are now worth 55 points, up from 40 points. The remaining positions pay the same as they have (35 for second, 34 for third, 33 for fourth, etc.).

Drivers will also be able to earn additional points through stages. Each race will award points in the first two stages for the top 10 drivers (10 points for first, nine for second, etc.). So, if a driver wins both stages and the race, they can earn a maximum of 75 points in a single race.

How does seeding work for The Chase?

Points will be reset just once, at the beginning of The Chase. They will be seeded based on the regular season standings as follows:

1st: 2,100 points

2nd: 2,075 points

3rd: 2,065 points

4th: 2,060 points

5th: 2,055 points

6th: 2,050 points

7th: 2,045 points

8th: 2,040 points

9th: 2,035 points

10th: 2,030 points

11th: 2,025 points

12th: 2,020 points

13th: 2,015 points

14th: 2,010 points

15th: 2,005 points

16th: 2,000 points

How does a driver win the championship?

It’s pretty simple, now. Whichever driver of the 16 that has the most points at the end of The Chase is the champion. There are no more eliminations or win-and-in systems.

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