The NASCAR community is celebrating the decision to retire the playoff format and adopt a 16-driver championship structure starting with the 2026 season, reverting to the original Chase format used from 2004 to 2014. Kevin Harvick, the last champion crowned under the original system, shared his perspectives on who might excel in this revived setup during a recent episode of his Happy Hour podcast.
Harvick identified five drivers he believes could leverage the old format’s advantages. He first mentioned veterans Denny Hamlin and Joey Logano, who have direct experience with the original Chase. He also included 2023 champion Ryan Blaney, noting Blaney’s usual consistency despite early-season setbacks last year.
“The guys with experience. I still think it’s gonna be the Denny Hamlin, Joey Logano… I’d say Hamlin, Logano, I think [Ryan] Blaney, I mean, he had a little spell at the beginning of last year where he had some things go wrong, but he’s usually super consistent.” Kevin Harvick said via Happy Hour podcast.
Extending the list, Harvick added two Hendrick Motorsports drivers known for their dependable performances: William Byron and 2020 champion Chase Elliott. He praised their “old school” racing style, emphasizing how their steady finishing would be crucial for accumulating points under the reinstated format.
“I think William Byron has ventured into that category. Chase Elliott, when you look at his stats, they’re finishers. They’re old school racers, and I think that style of racing is going to matter to be able to gather all those points.” Kevin Harvick added.
However, notably absent from Harvick’s list was reigning champion Kyle Larson, who has won two Cups and ranks among the most successful drivers in recent years. Observers speculate Harvick might have excluded Larson due to his difficulties with DNFs (Did Not Finish), which could affect consistency under the points-driven Chase system.
Harvick Views the Format Change as a Balanced Resolution
Discussing the recent format overhaul on his podcast, Harvick described it as a strong compromise catering to the interests of various NASCAR stakeholders. While broadcasters retain their dramatic moments throughout the season, Harvick suggested that many such moments in previous playoff structures have been artificially manufactured.
“I think it’s a great compromise, because there are a lot of parties involved. You’ve got television, who wants those cuts and moments every few races, but sometimes those moments are fabricated.” Kevin Harvick said.
Harvick emphasized that the new Chase format equally rewards winning and consistent finishes while penalizing DNFs more strictly, aligning with the values of durability and steady performance. Reflecting on his competitive mindset, he voiced that regardless of the structure, his sole focus remains on winning.
“Winning still has to be important, but when you get a DNF, it needs to hurt…As a competitor, you race to the format. I don’t make the format. I don’t care what it is. I just want to win.” Kevin Harvick said.
Anticipating the Impact of the Original Chase Format’s Return
Harvick’s commentary sheds light on how experience and consistency could define success in the upcoming NASCAR seasons under the reinstated original Chase format. The renewed points system will challenge drivers to balance aggression with reliability, making DNFs increasingly costly while rewarding those with steady performances.
The return of this format also rekindles debates about which drivers are best equipped to adapt, particularly with fresh technologies like the Next-Gen cars now in play. With contenders like Denny Hamlin, Joey Logano, Ryan Blaney, William Byron, and Chase Elliott poised as favorites, the landscape for the 2026 championship is set for an intense battle.
Kyle Larson’s absence from Harvick’s predictions adds intrigue, especially given his recent dominance and points leadership. Whether Larson can overcome the challenges posed by DNFs to capitalize on the new structure remains a pivotal question as the sport evolves.
As NASCAR prepares to crown its first champion under the revived Chase format, fans and analysts will closely watch how adaptability and consistency influence the title race in the Next-Gen era.
