Ten years have passed since NASCAR said farewell to the previous playoff structure, known as the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. Fans, however, were fiercely against the current format, as NASCAR posted a tweet on X (previously Twitter) honouring ten years of the new elimination-style playoff rumble.
The format used to be easier. After the first 26 races of the season, the top 10 drivers in terms of points advanced to the playoffs and participated in the postseason. Thus, a driver’s ability to accumulate points determined whether or not they advanced to the playoffs.
With the start of the 2014 season, things were different. The revised regulations state that a driver can qualify for the playoffs with a win in any regular-season event. The driver will crank his engine at the playoff opener, come rain or shine, whether that victory comes from an accident or whether he stays ahead of the pack when a red flag is raised after half of the race.
A new decade of #NASCARPlayoffs is rapidly approaching, following ten years of championship marches, surprising eliminations, and much more.
![How 10 years of elimination-style playoffs changed NASCAR](https://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2024/07/25/2024-july25-playoffs-keselowski-2-main-image.jpg)
It sparked critical reactions from a number of NASCAR fans, one of whom claimed that NASCAR’s apparent demise was well-earned.
These are some additional responses to NASCAR’s post regarding the first ten years of the new playoff structure.
A fan questioned, “So we’re getting rid of the horrible format?”
Another person remarked, “Just give me back the 10 race chases at least 😭.”
Although I still like to watch the races, something has always felt odd about the playoffs. Even with the thrill of the wall ride and my drivers winning championships, I wish the -season- would return to being a whole year. Please. It is annoying when the complaints are discounted. “It’s enough, ten years,” someone wrote.
“The entire playoff system is ridiculous!” exclaimed a supporter.
The postseason for NASCAR is only four races away this year. On September 8th, the 10-race playoff run will begin. The Quaker State 400 at Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton, Georgia, is the opening race on the programme.
NASCAR grants its newest partner naming rights.
Recently, NASCAR and Straight Talk Wireless entered into a multi-year partnership. After signing off, NASCAR granted the American 5G network provider the right to change the name of the October 27 playoff race at Homestead-Miami. The “Straight Talk Wireless 400” will be the new name of the race.
“As a highly identifiable brand, Straight Talk Wireless prioritises offering exceptional value to its clientele and their families, much like NASCAR. In a statement, NASCAR said, “We are excited to have Straight Talk Wireless become an Official Partner of the NASCAR family, both at the league and circuit levels (via phonearena.com)
Straight Talk Wireless and NASCAR have partnered to provide “NASCAR on Tour,” which will take place from August 21 to October 27. A number of Walmart stores in Daytona Beach, Darlington, Atlanta, Bentonville, Bristol, Kansas City, Talladega, Charlotte, Greenville, and Miami will have their parking lots visited by the event.
In the upcoming months, Straight Talk Wireless also plans to introduce race-themed promotions, give away special items, and have driver appearances.