NASCAR’s 2026 Changes to Enhance Racing Experience Significantly

Morgan Winslow

Published: February 15, 2026 3:14 PM ET

The upcoming NASCAR season is set to showcase significant changes aimed at enhancing the racing experience. After overcoming a weather-related delay for the exhibition race at Bowman Gray, drivers and teams are eager to kick off the competition, particularly with the Daytona 500, which will feature 45-46 entries vying for just 41 available spots.

NASCAR’s 2026 Changes to Enhance Racing Experience Significantly

Chartered Entries and Team Security

A major shift in NASCAR is the establishment of permanent charters for 36 teams. This arrangement stems from a settlement linked to the recent antitrust lawsuit involving 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports against NASCAR. With these charters, teams can expect greater financial stability moving forward.

Driver Changes and New Talent Introduction

Connor Zilisch, just 19 years old, has been promoted to the Cup Series to replace Daniel Suarez at Trackhouse Racing.
Suarez will take the wheel of the #7 at Spire Motorsports.
Shane van Gisbergen has switched to the #97, hoping to replicate his Supercars success.

Zilisch stands as the sole contender for Rookie of the Year, carrying the expectations of the racing community as he enters the season after a successful stint in the Xfinity Series.

Revamping the Championship Format

NASCAR is returning to a more traditional championship format, abandoning the controversial elimination playoffs. The new system breaks the season into two parts. After the first 26 races, the top 16 drivers will be reset, followed by a simplified 10-race championship where points determine the winner.

Early Favorites for 2026

Several prominent drivers are gearing up for a strong season. Defending champion Kyle Larson aims to reclaim his title and end a winless streak. Denny Hamlin, seeking his first championship after two decades, will also be a key figure. Other early contenders include:

William Byron
Chase Elliott
Ryan Blaney
Chase Briscoe
Christopher Bell

Chevrolet’s New Design and Competition Dynamics

Chevrolet teams, including Hendrick Motorsports and Trackhouse Racing, will debut a redesigned body focused on improved performance at intermediate and short tracks. Enhanced aerodynamics, including modified panels for better downforce and cooling, are expected to increase competition intensity.

Race Schedule and Points Importance

This season features four road and street courses, down from six, while classic tracks such as Chicagoland Speedway and North Wilkesboro return. With a new emphasis on point accumulation, every race becomes crucial, making any potential retirements even more impactful.

NASCAR has implemented a 20-point advantage for race winners over the second-place finishers. This encourages drivers to strive for victory rather than settle for a good points position, elevating the competitive atmosphere.

As the 2026 NASCAR season approaches, teams and fans alike are eager to witness the implications of these changes, which are set to enhance the excitement and integrity of the sport.