NASCAR's New Chase: A Mixed Bag of Excitement and Stress

Fans and Drivers Have Mixed Feelings

NASCAR is reviving The Chase for the 2026 season, but not everyone is happy. The old playoff format has sparked mixed reactions among fans and drivers. Some appreciate the emphasis on winning and consistency, while others find it too stressful.

Jimmie Johnson's Perspective

Seven-time champion Jimmie Johnson has strong opinions about the new format. He believes that stage racing adds a different kind of pressure.

"Stage racing brings a different kind of pressure. It forces drivers to act differently, and that's all about entertainment."

Johnson also admits that stage racing can be tough.

"With these new cars, our race starts even before we load the car onto the transporter."

This means drivers have to be perfect from the very beginning, which can be really hard.

The Chase Format

Johnson won six of his championships under The Chase format. He says the 10-race format was the most rewarding. He remembers one race where he didn't think he had a chance to win. But with a few restarts at the end, everything changed, and he won.

"I just didn't think I was gonna win."

New Format Details

The new format will include:

• A 10-race Chase
• Nine races for the O'Reilly Series
• Seven races for the Craftsman Truck Series

Drivers will be chosen based on points earned during the season. There will be no automatic entries or eliminations every three races.

Race winners will get 55 points for any victory, up from the previous 40. Stage points will also be awarded. The driver in first place will start with 2,100 points in the Chase, with a 25-point lead over second and a 35-point lead over third.

NASCAR hopes this new format will make the races more exciting. But only time will tell if drivers and fans will love it or hate it.