NASCAR’s Chase Explained: Format, Rules, Points and Everything to Know

CONCORD, NORTH CAROLINA - AUGUST 27: Kyle Larson speaks with the media during NASCAR Cup Series Playoff Media Day at Charlotte Convention Center on August 27, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina.(Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) GettyNASCAR changed the way its champions are crowned in 2026, bringing back The Chase while stripping away much of the complexity that defined the previous playoff era.There are no elimination rounds. A regular-season victory no longer guarantees a postseason berth.