Chase Elliott’s NASCAR format prediction is fueling discussions as the 2025 season winds down and attention shifts to major changes rumored for 2026. With speculation swirling about a possible return to the traditional full-season chase system, Elliott and other key figures in the sport are openly sharing their thoughts on what such a shift could mean on and off the track.
NASCAR Drivers Respond to 2026 Format Speculation
As anticipation builds for the 2026 NASCAR season, drivers have begun voicing opinions on potential changes to the championship structure. Chase Elliott recently added his voice, referencing earlier comments this July, where he supported the older chase format. Elliott emphasized the importance of recognizing a driver’s consistent performance over an entire season, urging fans and officials to celebrate dominant displays as they happen.
Should NASCAR bring back the classic system, Elliott believes it would have a noticeable impact on driver strategies. He anticipates that teams will modify their racing approach as they adapt to the revised format. This position aligns with legendary driver Mark Martin, a well-known proponent of the full-season chase system, who openly praised Elliott’s perspective, stating that Elliott identifies crucial nuances some others miss in these debates.
How Strategy Could Change Under a Full-Season Chase System
While rumors mount about a possible format change, Elliott is taking an analytical stance on how drivers might respond to a restored full-season chase approach. He explained that, if the old system returns, drivers would likely overhaul their tactics to maximize season-long performance.
“People would run their races differently if that were the case.”
– Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
Elliott also reflected on the dynamics of racing with teammates, particularly at Hendrick Motorsports, highlighting the importance of maintaining sportsmanship and mutual regard regardless of team affiliations.
“I think it’s just a respect thing whether somebody’s your teammate or not.”
– Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
The impact of the playoff system’s early days was another focal point in Elliott’s analysis. Drawing from past experience, he explained that, when NASCAR first implemented the current playoff structure, competitors didn’t immediately realize how pivotal stage points could be. This lack of awareness, Elliott suggested, made the initial seasons unique and influenced strategy evolution across the grid.
“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.”
– Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
Despite these insights, Elliott also pointed out unresolved questions, wondering whether a return to the old chase format would mean a complete overhaul or just adjustments, such as retaining or modifying race stages. He ultimately decided not to speculate further, choosing instead to wait for official word from NASCAR leadership before predicting any concrete outcomes.
Current Competition and What Lies Ahead
Looking toward immediate goals, Elliott’s focus remains sharp. Securing a P4 starting position at the upcoming Hollywood Casino 400 places him in a strong spot for the next round of the playoffs. Hendrick Motorsports teammate Kyle Larson will line up in P3, and together, the duo aims to challenge the Joe Gibbs Racing drivers, who have qualified on the front row.
As fans and competitors await clarity from NASCAR about the 2026 season, Elliott’s forward-looking analysis keeps the conversation alive. His measured perspective not only highlights the adaptability required by drivers like himself and Kyle Larson, but also suggests that any major format change could reshape strategies, alliances, and race-day decision-making within the sport. The coming months will be watched closely by teams, fans, and officials eager to see if NASCAR pursues the sweeping changes many have started to anticipate.
"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
