Chase Elliott has weighed in on the ongoing discussions about possibly bringing back the Chase Elliott NASCAR full season format for the championship, suggesting a shift to the 36-race system would noticeably impact driver strategy. With the playoff committee reportedly considering the change for 2026, Elliott and industry voices anticipate notable differences in how races would play out if the format returns.
In recent comments, Elliott reflected on the methods drivers have used in various playoff formats, recalling how competitors adapted to the introduction of stage points during the early years of the playoffs. He expects a similarly significant adjustment among drivers, should the organization revert to the comprehensive season-long approach reminiscent of NASCAR’s history.
Drivers Would Tweak Race Tactics Under Full-Season Approach
Chase Elliott discussed the implications of reintroducing a full-season points system, particularly how it may alter the way drivers approach each race. Mark Martin, a Hall of Fame driver who has spoken against the playoff system in the past, found support in Elliott’s openness to the idea. Reports indicate that the NASCAR playoff committee has been revisiting the notion of a 36-race format potentially as soon as the 2026 season, which would represent a major shift back to tradition within the sport.
Elliott had previously addressed one of the criticisms of NASCAR’s classic points system—namely, that a dominant driver could claim the championship before the season’s end. However, he argued this was not necessarily a flaw, as exceptional performance throughout the year should be recognized as a legitimate and praiseworthy feat.
When Elliott was asked specifically about how a 36-race schedule would change things, he responded,
“People would run their races differently if that were the case,”
– Chase Elliott, Driver
“Best example I can give is those first couple of years that we had the playoff system the way it was, it was almost like everyone didn’t realize how beneficial and crucial stage points were there those first couple years and there was a lot of freebies up for grabs….And then as time went on, like everyone figured that out and realized man, you can really stack some points and totally you change the complexion of your day,” he added.
– Chase Elliott, Driver
Elliott further pondered whether stage points would even continue to exist in the classic setup, expressing his intention to hold off on speculation until the official rules were released.
Sentiment among many fans and observers is that NASCAR’s willingness to reconsider the format is partly influenced by recent trends in viewership and general disapproval of the current playoff system. The move would not only introduce strategic adjustments for teams and drivers but could also revive debates about the fairest way to determine a champion.
Elliott’s Advocacy During Breast Cancer Awareness Initiatives
Off the track, Elliott continues to play a prominent part in charitable efforts, most recently ahead of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. NASCAR announced plans to feature unique pink window nets across all Cup Series vehicles as a tribute, and Elliott spoke about his personal connection to the cause, given his grandmother’s battle with breast cancer.
“It’s an important month for a lot of people. Breast cancer has impacted, unfortunately, almost every family I know in some way, shape, or form, and certainly has impacted mine. It’s always been an important initiative for that reason, and will certainly continue to be,” he said.
– Chase Elliott, Driver
Under the special campaign, these pink window nets will later be autographed by the drivers and donated to charitable organizations, extending the campaign’s impact to communities affected by the disease and raising additional awareness for breast cancer research and support.
On-Track Action and Key Competitors
Chase Elliott is also making headlines for his performance on race weekends. For the upcoming Hollywood Casino 400 at Kansas Speedway, Elliott secured the fourth starting position, just behind teammate Kyle Larson, who qualified third. Joe Gibbs Racing, a dominant force in the series, continues to feature prominently in the grid.
Elsewhere in qualifying, Chase Briscoe achieved his seventh Busch Light Pole of the season, while Denny Hamlin completed the front row by finishing just 0.101 seconds behind the leader. With the field set for another competitive event, teams and fans are closely watching how each driver will approach the race, especially in light of the evolving discussions around championship formats.
The ongoing debate over the Chase Elliott NASCAR full season format, combined with Elliott’s on-track success and off-track advocacy, highlights his influence both within and beyond the sport. As the 2026 season approaches and discussions continue, the racing community remains attentive to potential changes that could reshape strategies, championship battles, and how excellence in NASCAR is evaluated.
"I think it's just a respect thing whether somebody's your teammate or not."@chaseelliott on racing Hendrick teammates on track.
He also speculates how drivers would handle a full-season format.
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— Frontstretch (@Frontstretch) September 27, 2025
