NASCAR updates rookie rules, disallows Heim for 2027 eligibility
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 13, 2026, 9:55 PM
Last updated Aug 13, 2026
NASCAR has implemented new criteria for drivers aiming to declare for the Rookie of the Year in the Cup Series, limiting eligible drivers to no more than 12 starts prior to the designated season. In the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and Craftsman Truck Series, the restrictions are set at 10 and eight starts, respectively. This rule change impacts driver Mike Heim, who will no longer be able to qualify for Rookie of the Year status in 2027. The revised regulations are part of NASCAR's commitment to standardizing its rookie eligibility across various series, ensuring a fairer opportunity for new drivers.
- •New criteria limit Cup Series rookies to 12 prior starts.
- •O’Reilly Auto Parts Series drivers can have 10 prior starts.
- •Craftsman Truck Series drivers face a limit of eight prior starts.
- •Mike Heim is ruled out for the 2027 Rookie of the Year.
- •The changes aim to create a more equitable environment for new drivers.
- 9:55 PMYahoo Sports — NASCAR Changes Rookie of the Year Rules Ahead of 2027 Season
- 2:51 PMRacer — NASCAR redefines rookies, ruling out Heim for ’27
"The new criteria is that in the Cup Series a driver can have no more than 12 starts prior to the season they want to declare for Rookie of the Year. It is 10 starts in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and eight in the Craftsman Truck Series.
"NASCAR has clarified Rookie of the Year eligibility by introducing new start limits and explaining how drivers officially qualify to compete for the annual award.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 13, 2026, 9:55 PMNASCAR Changes Rookie of the Year Rules Ahead of 2027 Season
NASCAR has clarified Rookie of the Year eligibility by introducing new start limits and explaining how drivers officially qualify to compete for the annual award.
- RacerAug 12, 2026, 2:51 PMNASCAR redefines rookies, ruling out Heim for ’27
The new criteria is that in the Cup Series a driver can have no more than 12 starts prior to the season they want to declare for Rookie of the Year. It is 10 starts in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and eight in the Craftsman Truck Series.
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