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FILE - Kyle Busch smiles prior to a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, in Concord, N.C. (AP Photo/Matt Kelley, File)

NASCAR has announced a return to its original championship format, known as "The Chase," starting in 2026. The new system will feature a 10-race format with the top 16 drivers, without eliminations every three races. The driver with the most points at the finale in Homestead-Miami Speedway on November 8th will be the champion. This change comes after fan complaints about the current system, which included eliminations and a winner-take-all finale. NASCAR President Steve O’Donnell says the new format aims to reward performance and honor the sport's history. The focus is on consistency and aggressive racing.

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FILE - Denny Hamlin looks on prior to a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, in Concord, N.C. (AP Photo/Matt Kelley, File)