NASCAR’s decision to revert from the elimination-style playoff format to the traditional Chase method starting in 2026 is expected to significantly influence how drivers approach their racing strategies. Ryan Blaney, driver for Team Penske, anticipates this shift will encourage more calculated competition, a view that Wood Brothers driver Josh Berry supports.
Effects of the Elimination Format on Driver Behavior
Under the elimination-based playoff system, drivers facing elimination often resorted to aggressive and risky maneuvers to secure a win, which was the sole path to advance in the postseason. This approach frequently led to intense on-track battles and controversial moves. For example, at Watkins Glen last year, Ross Chastain made a last-corner move against Denny Hamlin while striving for a playoff spot in the Round of 8, reflecting the desperation the format fostered. Similarly, Austin Dillon faced suspension in 2024 after executing a comparable move at Richmond.
With the return of the Chase format, winning will no longer guarantee playoff advancement automatically. The emphasis is shifting back toward consistent point accumulation, which many drivers believe could reduce reckless behavior and restore a greater level of respect among competitors during races.
Josh Berry’s Perspective on Changing Race Dynamics
Josh Berry expressed agreement with Ryan Blaney’s perspective on how the elimination format contributed to justification for aggressive choices in the heat of competition. He explained that the pressure to win often served as a rationale for questionable tactics.
“I think I saw Blaney make that point, and ultimately I agree with him right? I mean I think we’ve seen times when you know some moves have gotten made and it’s always well, I got to win, right? So I think that’ll change the dynamic a little bit,” Berry said via Peter Stratta (2:19 onwards).
“Win still matter a lot, but it’ll be interesting to see if that changes a lot of people’s perceptions of how they race, especially when you look at superspeedway races and things like that. Where, if you only have to win, right, that changes how you race versus obviously you still’ve to go to Daytona or Tallaladega and walk out there with a top five and some points would be a good day in this new system. So, I think it should change how people think. I think it’s hard to say if that’ll show up on track or not,” he added.
Berry noted that while victories remain important, the new Chase system rewards steady finishes and point accumulation, which may influence drivers to adopt less desperate and more strategic racing tactics, especially at superspeedway events where cautious consistency could be advantageous.
Ryan Blaney on Playoff Format and Aggression in Racing
Ryan Blaney welcomed the change, criticizing the previous playoff system for promoting over-aggression that sometimes compromised the integrity of racing. He noted that drivers often used the playoff’s high stakes as an excuse for reckless conduct, which detracted from the sport’s competitive spirit.
“I think (in) the format for the longest time, you had to do that. And guys would have the excuses like, ‘Well, I had to do it. I didn’t want to do it, but I did it.’ That’s the lamest excuse in the world. But I understand it like cuase that’s what the format was. And it’s like, teams who are outside looking in, can’t get in on points, you got to take your shot to win. And it would get pretty dirty, and just that takes away from the purity of racing to me,” he said (via Peter Stratta).
Blaney referenced the era of racing icons Mark Martin and Dale Earnhardt Jr., remarking that during their time, drivers maintained a balance of fierce competition and mutual respect. He expressed hope that the Chase format’s return would foster a similar atmosphere once again.
Concerns About Increasing On-Track Contact
Despite optimism from Blaney and Berry, some voices in NASCAR remain uncertain about the extent of change the format shift will bring. Kyle Busch raised concerns about the escalating level of contact in recent seasons and questioned whether the change in playoffs alone would sufficiently curb aggressive driving incidents.
Team Penske’s View on the Format Shift
Team Penske has notably thrived under the elimination playoff system, securing three of the last four Cup Series titles without always leading in total wins. Some speculated that this success might make them favor the former system. Ryan Blaney, however, dismissed that notion and expressed confidence that the Chase format suits the team just as well, if not better.
“It’s not bittersweet at all. And I look forward to it. I think honestly, we’ll be even better in this format. People think we only get good in the playoffs, but like we ran second in the regular season points last year, and honestly, this format now, the chase would have benefited me more than what last year’s playoff format was. So not bittersweet at all. It’s a good day for us, and I think it’s going to benefit our team.”
As the upcoming season approaches, scheduled to restart in slightly over two weeks, the racing community awaits to observe how the revival of the Chase format will alter strategies and on-track interactions among drivers. The shift promises to recalibrate the competitive mindset, prioritizing consistent performance while potentially reducing risky moves born of desperation.
