We all know that NASCAR and the industry have been in fierce conversations this season about a potential change to the Championship format as soon as the 2026 season. Fans and industry personalities alike have clearly felt that the current format has run aground, and even the TV numbers have fallen substantially year over year. It is time to take it out behind the barn, so to speak.

Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic and Dirty Mo Media has revealed that the 2026 format is down to three straightforward format choices as front-runners. Although no one has confirmed with 100% certainty that the format is changing in 2026, the amount of chatter, even from NASCAR President Steve O’Donnell, raises the level of certainty.

The three front-running formats are as follows: Full Season. I think this one is pretty self-explanatory. A complete 36-race season compilation of the points, with the victor being crowned at Homestead-Miami in 2026.

10 Race Chase: Just as we had from 2004-2013, a predetermined number of drivers would have their points reset for the final 10 races of the season and race for points in those 10 races, with the victor being crowned at Homestead.

The 3-3-4 Format: Similar to the elimination format we have had in NASCAR since 2014, we would retain a 10-race, elimination format championship. But! Instead of a single race to decide it all, we would have two or three races, followed by a fourth and final round where the remaining drivers compete for total points, with the champion crowned at Homestead.

Fans Opinions

What do you think? Of the three proposed Championship formats, which is your favorite? Why is it your favorite? Make sure to leave your opinions in the comments section under the link on your favorite social media platform.

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