After twelve years of racing under the elimination-style playoffs, NASCAR is finally bidding farewell to this format and welcoming back the old-school ‘Chase’ format. This change has sparked a wave of nostalgia among racers, who have been eagerly waiting for this long-awaited departure.
The elimination-style playoffs were introduced in 2004 with the aim of adding excitement and drama to the sport. However, over the years, it has faced criticism from both fans and racers alike. Many felt that it took away the essence of traditional racing and turned it into a game of luck and survival. The playoffs also faced backlash for being too complicated and confusing for both new and old fans.
But now, with the return of the ‘Chase’ format, there is a sense of relief and excitement in the Cup Series garage. This format, which was used from 2004 to 2013, is a simpler and more traditional way of determining the champion. It consists of four rounds, with the bottom four drivers being eliminated after each round, leaving four drivers to compete for the championship in the final race.
One of the drivers who is particularly happy with this change is Erik Jones. The 25-year-old driver, who has been racing in the Cup Series since 2017, believes that the ‘Chase’ format is a better representation of true racing.
In an interview, Jones said, “I think it’s great that we are going back to the ‘Chase’ format. It’s a more traditional way of racing and it brings back the roots of NASCAR. It’s all about consistency and performing well throughout the season, rather than just one race.”
Jones also believes that this change will bring back the excitement and unpredictability that was missing in the playoffs. He said, “With the playoffs, it was all about surviving and advancing. But with the ‘Chase’ format, anything can happen in the final race. It’s going to be a nail-biting finish and that’s what racing is all about.”
The return of the ‘Chase’ format has also reignited the long-forgotten roots of NASCAR. It takes us back to the days when the sport was all about pure racing and the driver’s skill and consistency were the key factors in determining the champion.
This change has been welcomed by many other drivers as well. Seven-time Cup Series champion, Jimmie Johnson, who has experienced both formats, said, “I am excited to see the ‘Chase’ format back. It’s a more traditional way of racing and it brings back the true essence of NASCAR. I think it’s going to be a great change for the sport.”
Even fans are thrilled with this change. Many have taken to social media to express their excitement and nostalgia for the ‘Chase’ format. They believe that this change will bring back the excitement and unpredictability that was missing in the playoffs.
The return of the ‘Chase’ format is not the only change that NASCAR has announced for the 2026 season. They have also introduced a new car design, which is aimed at reducing costs and improving the quality of racing. This change has been welcomed by both racers and fans, who believe that it will make the sport more competitive and exciting.
Overall, the changes announced by NASCAR for the 2026 season have been met with a positive response. The return of the ‘Chase’ format has brought back the nostalgia and excitement of traditional racing, while the new car design promises to improve the quality of racing. With these changes, NASCAR is taking a step towards its roots and bringing back the true essence of the sport. As Erik Jones said, “It’s a great time to be a part of NASCAR.”
