New NASCAR Sprint Cup Format Given Green Light

The official announcement by NASCAR regarding the 2014 Chase for the Sprint Cup’s new format put an end to weeks of speculation and sparked debates among NASCAR fans on the pros and cons of the upcoming changes, which are reportedly designed to put the emphasis on winning races, rather than accumulating points. It is anticipated that the new format will generate a lot more excitement among fans, which may result in grandstands packed to capacity with spectators, a scenario which should make sponsors happy and motivate them to keep teams running.

The new NASCAR Sprint Cup scoring format increases the number of Chase competitors from 12 to 16 and drivers must win at least one of the first 26 races of the season to earn one of 15 spots in the championship. The 16th position will go to the season’s points leader, irrespective of a win. Also, in order to qualify for the Chase, drivers must be in the Top 30 in points at the end of the 26 races and tried to qualify in these races.

A series of qualifier races after the 29th, 32nd and 35th races will eliminate drivers each time, until four drivers remain for the final race to be held at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Starting from a leveled playing field, the four drivers will compete for the 2014 NASCAR Sprint Cup championship title.

While there are obviously pros and cons for both the old and new format of the NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup, it’s generally agreed that the 2014 season is likely to see an uptick in competitiveness as drivers go all out for a win, knowing that collecting points may just not be good enough. Strategies for on the track and in the pits may have to be revised, and team-work will take on a whole new dimension – all of which should add up to a whole lot of action for 2014.