NASCAR will reintroduce a 10-race championship format in 2026, closely resembling its original "The Chase" system from 22 years ago. The top 16 drivers will qualify, with no mid-playoff eliminations. Winning will be incentivized, and the driver with the most points at the season finale will be crowned champion. This change aims to address fan dissatisfaction with frequent format alterations since 2013, which had led to complex elimination rounds and a winner-take-all finale.