Sports News Report
League: NASCARSport: MotorsportsCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

NASCAR eliminates regular season champion title starting in 2026

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 23, 2026, 5:00 PM

Last updated Jul 23, 2026

NASCAR eliminates regular season champion title starting in 2026
Summary

NASCAR will stop naming a "regular season champion" beginning in 2026, transitioning to an updated Chase format. The top driver in the season standings will now be designated the "No. 1 seed" without a separate trophy. This change aligns NASCAR with other American sports, which often reward the top team with seeding rather than a championship title. The shift comes as NASCAR seeks to enhance competitive control for drivers. The organization plans to present one trophy annually in November.

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By the Numbers
  • •NASCAR will eliminate the regular season trophy in 2026.
  • •The top driver will be called the 'No. 1 seed'.
  • •This transition follows the removal of playoffs after the 2025 season.
  • •NASCAR aims to give drivers more control over their outcomes.
  • •One annual trophy will be awarded in November.
Latest Updates
  • 5:00 PMYahoo Sports — NASCAR won't name a "regular season champion" starting in 2026
What they're saying
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NASCAR will no longer name a "regular season champion" starting in 2026. The sport will also eliminate the "regular season trophy."

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