Christopher Bell, a leading voice in NASCAR, has publicly criticized the current NASCAR playoff format, suggesting that a more comprehensive points-based approach is needed to fairly crown a champion. His remarks arrived as the organization explores potential changes to the championship structure, bringing renewed attention to the Christopher Bell NASCAR playoff format debate.
Bell Proposes Full-Season Points for Champion Selection
Christopher Bell has voiced a strong preference for a championship format that rewards consistency throughout the entire racing season, rather than a single decisive race. As highlighted in a recent video interview circulated by racing outlet Frontstretch, Bell clearly laid out his stance regarding how champions should be determined in the sport.
“I think there’s only one true, legitimate champion crowning format and that’s to count every race.”
— Christopher Bell, NASCAR Cup Series driver
Bell went on to state unequivocally that he believes every race across the season should contribute equally to deciding the title, rather than focusing on a solitary showdown at the year’s end.
“I think there’s only one true, legitimate champion crowning format and that’s to count every race. I think that is how you get a legitimate champion.”
— Christopher Bell, NASCAR Cup Series driver
Continuing his argument, Bell expressed hope that NASCAR will consider adjustments, reiterating his support for a points-based system that involves all 36 races:
“I’m hopeful that there is compromise on what we have now. You know, I’ve been very vocal about taking as many we can get. I think that 36 races are full points for the entire year and that is the best way to go.”
— Christopher Bell, NASCAR Cup Series driver
Bell also acknowledged the challenges of reverting to the previous format, but made clear that even incremental change would be welcome over the current system:
“I don’t think we are going to get there so I’ll take whatever they give us. Anything more than one is better.”
— Christopher Bell, NASCAR Cup Series driver
NASCAR’s Playoff System Faces Internal Review
Bell’s comments come as NASCAR officials actively evaluate their playoff system. According to reports from Jayski, the sport’s leadership has been conducting ongoing meetings with drivers, team members, and track officials to deliberate on potential updates to the championship process.
Historically, the NASCAR Cup Series awarded the championship to the driver with the most points over a 36-race season, a structure that emphasized steady performance and consistency. This was standard until 2003. However, the introduction of the playoff format in 2004 was intended to generate greater excitement and unpredictability for fans, although it has been widely criticized by competitors and analysts for adding unnecessary complexity.
While early discussions in the current season showed little appetite for changing the format, sentiment began to shift during a pivotal September meeting. Several influential figures advocated for a return to the older format, which many believe produces a more credible and deserving champion based on season-long achievement.
Bells Stays Focused Amid Playoff Pressure
Despite his critique of the current playoff structure, Christopher Bell remains firmly locked on his own championship aspirations with Joe Gibbs Racing. Toyota teams faced challenges at the recent New Hampshire Motor Speedway event, missing out on top-five finishes, yet Bell’s confidence remains undiminished as he navigates the playoffs.
Bell managed a sixth-place result at New Hampshire, finishing ahead of his fellow Toyota drivers, while Chase Briscoe secured a spot in the top 10. Ford competitors Ryan Blaney and Josh Berry clinched the top two positions for their manufacturer. Speaking after the race, Bell shared his outlook for the coming playoff rounds:
“I feel good about our performance at the next two, but with that being said, I felt good about our performance coming into here, and it didn’t turn out. Kansas is very similar to what we had at Darlington, so hopefully we do good.”
— Christopher Bell, NASCAR Cup Series driver
“I think we can. Then surely, the Roval is a road course we’re definitely strong at. Optimistic, you never know until you get through them. But today was a good day and off to a good start in the Round of 12.”
— Christopher Bell, NASCAR Cup Series driver
Christopher Bell directly compared Kansas Speedway, the site of an upcoming playoff race, to Darlington Raceway, where Toyota drivers delivered a dominating 1-2-3-4 performance earlier this postseason. He also identified the Charlotte Roval as a potential advantage for Joe Gibbs Racing, referencing the team’s strength at road courses.
In the current playoff standings, Bell is placed fourth, holding a 29-point buffer above the elimination cutoff. He is the highest-ranked Toyota driver in the postseason, ahead of Denny Hamlin and Chase Briscoe, who remain within striking distance as the championship race tightens.
The Future of NASCAR’s Playoff Format
The discussion around the Christopher Bell NASCAR playoff format critique has struck a chord throughout the sport, as both officials and drivers weigh tradition against spectacle. The ongoing reviews by NASCAR leadership and increased driver input could prompt a significant shift in how future Cup Series champions are crowned.
With the playoffs entering a pivotal phase, the spotlight remains not only on Bell’s championship hopes but also on the broader implications of his push for reform. Whether NASCAR decides to maintain its current model or heed the calls for change, the coming months will be decisive for the future structure of the championship and for the credibility of the title in the eyes of competitors and fans alike.
"I think there's only one true, legitimate champion crowning format and that's to count every race."@CBellRacing wants to see the championship determined by more than a single race. #NASCAR
Presenting partner: @MyPlaceHotels pic.twitter.com/8zbUlGKmno
— Frontstretch (@Frontstretch) September 27, 2025
