With just two races remaining in the regular season, the NASCAR Cup Series is preparing for the return of the Chase format after 12 years of win-and-in playoffs. The new postseason system emphasizes consistency and sustained performance throughout the season rather than rewarding single race victories, fundamentally changing how drivers approach competition over the full campaign.
Denny Hamlin currently leads the standings after a remarkable midseason surge that included three consecutive wins, while Ryan Blaney sits second with victories at Las Vegas and Atlanta. Ty Gibbs, Tyler Reddick, and Chase Briscoe round out the top five, with all four Joe Gibbs Racing drivers already clinching Chase spots. Several other contenders, including three-time champion Joey Logano, have dramatically improved their positions in recent weeks, with Logano climbing from 20th to ninth in points following wins at North Wilkesboro and Richmond.
The Chase will feature 16 drivers competing in 10 races beginning September 6 at Darlington. Points will be reset with the regular season leader receiving a 25-point advantage, but drivers currently on the bubble must perform well at New Hampshire and Daytona to secure postseason berths. Several drivers remain mathematically eliminated, while others like Ryan Preece and Shane van Gisbergen face must-win scenarios to claim their spots in the postseason field.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
About the Author
