From Autoweek · Deb Williams · · 50s
NASCAR Chase Format Shift
Drivers misjudged NASCAR's new point system as championship path.
In brief
Drivers misjudged NASCAR's new point system as championship path. Kyle Larson leads Chase with 40-point lead over Denny Hamlin after misjudging the new point system's impact. Originally reported by Autoweek.
Chase Theories Proven False
Two theories about championship chances were wrong as drivers entered the post-season.
Larson Leads by 40 Points
Kyle Larson leads second place Denny Hamlin by 40 points after halfway through the 10-race Chase.
Point System Impact
Win bonus gives drivers 55 points per race with stage wins worth 10 points each.
Bell's Realization
Christopher Bell says the win bonus can make up significant ground in the championship chase.
“Nobody knew how big of an impact that win bonus was going to have throughout the regular season”
Bell's Strategy
Bell believes winning three of next five races could secure championship title.
“If we can go out and win three of the next five, I think I’ll be the champion. So, it’s still within my grasp and I love that. I love the format. I think NASCAR’s done a great job on hitting on it, and I think it’s delivered”
Chase Format Shift
Drivers now focus on winning races to gain points rather than finishing in top six.
The essence
Kyle Larson leads Chase with 40-point lead over Denny Hamlin after misjudging the new point system's impact.
