Chase Elliott, a notable NASCAR Cup Series champion, clarified his position on the newly announced championship format during an event held on Monday. He emphasized that his support for the changes was contingent on details provided by NASCAR, demonstrating his thoughtful approach and highlighting his role in shaping the Chase Elliott NASCAR championship stance.
Elliott Sought Clarity Before Supporting New Format
Before agreeing to participate in NASCAR’s championship reveal event, Elliott, known for his prior criticism of past systems despite his own playoff success, required assurance from officials about the proposed changes. His willingness to join the event reflected a deliberate choice, rooted in a desire for transparency and honesty with fans and stakeholders.
“When they call me to do this, you know, couple weeks ago, or whatever, I said ‘Well, what is it?’ I wasn’t gonna come unless I liked what we were doing. I don’t wanna sit here and lie to you all about what we got and tell you how great it is,”
Elliott told reporters.
At just 30 years old, Elliott had proven his capabilities under the most recent playoff system, claiming a Cup Series championship. However, he expressed excitement over NASCAR’s decision to revamp its competition, reflecting both a respect for tradition and a forward-looking mindset.
NASCAR’s Reintroduction of ‘The Chase’ Format
Joining fellow drivers such as Chase Briscoe, Ryan Blaney, Mark Martin, and Dale Earnhardt Jr., Elliott witnessed NASCAR President Steve O’Donnell present the decision to pivot back to a format inspired by ‘The Chase.’ This move signaled a significant return to older traditions, with the 26 initial races now acting as qualifiers for a renewed 10-race title push.
The modernized system differs from the elimination rounds of the past, as all drivers who qualify will begin the championship segment with points determined by their performance throughout the regular season. Unlike previous iterations, a race win now grants 55 points, but does not guarantee a spot in the championship chase, altering the competitive strategy for contenders.
For the 10-race championship stretch, the leader at the end of the regular season starts with 2,100 points. The runner-up receives 2,075 points, and third place is set at 2,065 points, with each subsequent spot decreasing by five points—a format designed to reward season-long excellence while maintaining competition.
Driver Feedback Shapes NASCAR’s Approach
Elliott praised NASCAR’s leadership, noting the openness of President Steve O’Donnell and the organization to driver feedback over the years. Reflecting on the ongoing discussions among drivers regarding possible improvements, Elliott acknowledged the influential voices of both current competitors and legends within the sport.
“kind of screamed at some of these things over the course of time, just wanting it to be better.”
— Chase Elliott, NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Elliott Urges Fans to Embrace Change
With substantial changes set in motion, Elliott appealed to fans to approach the new format with patience and optimism. He highlighted the historical significance of the moment and encouraged celebrating the accomplishments of both the champion and high-performing drivers each season.
“Let’s enjoy what we have because we’re making history, whether you like it or not. Celebrate the champion, celebrate the guys who went out there and did a good job. I think this format promotes that,”
he said.
What Awaits in the 2024 Cup Series Season
The effectiveness of bringing back ‘The Chase’ and the impact on NASCAR’s future remain uncertain. Yet, anticipation builds as the Cup Series opens the new era with the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium on February 1, quickly followed by the prestigious Daytona 500.
The unfolding season will also see seven-time champion Jimmie Johnson returning for two scheduled Cup Series appearances. As NASCAR embarks on this new path, the voices of figures like Chase Elliott, Ryan Blaney, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and Mark Martin, alongside the stewardship of Steve O’Donnell, will continue steering the sport through a transformative period.
.@chaseelliott: “I wouldn’t be here lying to y’all if I didn’t like it”#NASCAR pic.twitter.com/NeKMs6IBFp
— Peter Stratta (@peterstratta) January 12, 2026
