NASCAR’s reintroduced Chase playoff format in 2026 aims to replace the elimination-style system used until 2025, which pressured drivers into risky, sometimes controversial maneuvers. While some drivers hope this change will reduce reckless behavior on the track, Kyle Busch remains skeptical. Speaking during testing at North Wilkesboro Speedway, Busch expressed doubt that the adjustment will stop aggressive moves like dive-bombing.
He noted that younger drivers in series such as ARCA and Late Models are already taught to execute forceful passes and close racing tactics early in their careers, suggesting that these behaviors are deeply ingrained. Busch said,
“No. When you watch the kids who race all year long in ARCA, Late Models, and other series, you already see that stuff.”
He further added,
“They are taught from a very young age to dive bomb and run into them and ‘door that guy!’ Being a dad, I have heard those words, and maybe I have said those words once or twice. I don’t think it will change a whole lot.”
New Format Lowers Incentive for Risky Moves but Doesn’t Eliminate Them
Under the previous elimination-style playoff setup, drivers frequently resorted to desperate tactics late in the season to secure a spot in the Chase or gain an advantage for the title run. The return to the Chase format raises the bar for consistent performance throughout the year, reducing the urgency to win by any means necessary in a single race.
Busch emphasized that any crash now would severely damage a driver’s championship chances. He remarked during the test,
“Any crashes will kill your championship run.”
This highlights the increased importance of avoiding incidents and maintaining steady results to advance in the standings.
Although the pressure to secure a last-minute win has decreased, Busch acknowledged that exceptional competitive circumstances might still lead some drivers to make risky moves. However, he believes such situations will be rarer. Even winning a race no longer guarantees playoff qualification without sustained point accumulation over the season.
Busch’s Outlook on Making the Chase as a Seasoned Competitor
With the format focusing on consistent average finishes rather than isolated victories, Busch described the goal as simply performing well enough to achieve the lowest average finishing positions. When asked if this improves his chances of making the postseason after missing the playoffs in recent years, he was measured in his response.
Reflecting on previous seasons, Busch said,
“I feel like the last two years we were knocked out of the bubble because of the winners behind us. They maybe wouldn’t have been there otherwise. But yeah, it gives us an opportunity to talk about sixteenth place. There’s no reason why I need to be talking about sixteenth.”
In 2026, Busch enters his fourth season with Richard Childress Racing, teaming up for the first time with Jim Pohlman, an Xfinity Series championship-winning crew chief. This reset in both team personnel and playoff structure presents Busch with a fresh opportunity to rebound and regain competitive momentum.
Implications of the Format Switch for Drivers and the Sport
The return to the Chase format signals NASCAR’s intention to prioritize consistent, strategic racing over sudden, high-risk moves spurred by playoff elimination threats. For veteran drivers like Kyle Busch, this means adapting to a system that values steady point accumulation and minimizing mistakes rather than aggressive last-ditch gambles.
While the new structure may reduce reckless behavior overall, Busch’s comments suggest that the ingrained culture of assertive racing, taught from a young age, will persist. Consequently, fans can still expect intense and closely fought battles despite the lowered incentive for desperation.
As the 2026 season progresses, Busch’s collaboration with Richard Childress Racing and Jim Pohlman could play a crucial role in how effectively he navigates this evolved competitive landscape. The season will test whether the format change restores respect on the track or if old habits continue to influence driving styles.
.@KyleBusch gave his thoughts on NASCAR’s new/old format, testing at @NWBSpeedway, and his friendship with Greg Biffle.
“Any crashes will kill your championship run”#NASCAR pic.twitter.com/HGlnHnAQOh
— Peter Stratta (@peterstratta) January 13, 2026
