NASCAR's Chase format returns as postseason begins at Darlington
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 28, 2026, 9:02 AM
Last updated Aug 28, 2026
NASCAR's Chase, a revamped championship postseason, begins next week at Darlington. The format eliminates the previous playoff system, with 16 drivers qualifying for the Chase based on points. Denny Hamlin has secured the top position with 2,100 points ahead of the Chase. The initial standings list Hamlin leading Ryan Blaney and Ty Gibbs. After the upcoming Coke Zero Sugar 400, the final Chase field could change based on performance.
- •The Chase begins next week at Darlington after the Coke Zero Sugar 400.
- •Denny Hamlin leads the Chase standings with 2,100 points.
- •The top 16 drivers will compete in the Chase based on current points.
- •There are tight margins in the standings, affecting potential Chase contenders.
- •Hamlin has a 25-point lead over Ryan Blaney, who has 2,075 points.
- 9:02 AMYahoo Sports — NASCAR Chase starts after Daytona. Here's how the new format works
"NASCAR ditched its playoffs for a return to the "Chase," which begins next week at Darlington. Here's how it works.
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