NASCAR is at a crossroads, and the future of its championship format is sparking heated debates. But here's where it gets controversial: Should the sport revert to a 36-race points-based season, or is the current playoff system the way to go? Brad Keselowski, a NASCAR champion, team owner, and driver, has stepped into the fray with a bold opinion that’s turning heads. And this is the part most people miss—his perspective isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about the sport’s long-term survival and identity.
During a recent media interaction at Talladega, Keselowski addressed the growing chorus of drivers, fans, and media personalities advocating for a return to the 36-race format. His stance is rooted in a unique dual role within the sport, offering insights that blend on-track experience with behind-the-scenes understanding. So, what’s driving this push, and why does Keselowski believe it’s the best path forward?
The Squeaky Wheel Gets the Grease
Keselowski highlights NASCAR’s peculiar dynamic: it’s a sport where negative feedback often drives change. “The 36-race format has gained momentum because the industry is realizing it’s probably best for the sport,” he explained, via Jeff Gluck of The Athletic. This shift, once a fringe idea championed by figures like Mark Martin on social media, has now gained legitimacy and is on the brink of becoming reality.
The Heart of the Debate: Playoffs vs. Season-Long Championship
Keselowski argues that NASCAR’s essence lies in its races, not just its championship. “NASCAR was built on the concept of races connected with a championship, but it’s shifted to a championship connected by races,” he noted. This change, he believes, has stripped the sport of its big-event feel—a hallmark of its past glory. By returning to a 36-race format, Keselowski envisions 38 major events that could reignite NASCAR’s enduring appeal.
A Controversial Question: Is the Playoff Format Diluting NASCAR’s Legacy?
Here’s where opinions diverge. While the playoff system adds drama, Keselowski suggests it prioritizes the championship over individual races, potentially undermining what made NASCAR special. He emphasizes, “The best opportunity for the sport’s future is a season-long format where races are connected by a championship, not the other way around.”
What’s Next for NASCAR?
As of now, a modified playoff format is on the table for 2026, but nothing is finalized. Keselowski’s insights challenge us to think critically: Is the 36-race format a nostalgic throwback, or is it the key to NASCAR’s revival? And here’s the burning question: Do you agree with Keselowski, or do you think the playoff system is here to stay? Let’s debate—what’s your take on NASCAR’s future?
