Corey Heim, the standout driver of the No. 11 truck, is voicing strong concerns about the current NASCAR playoff rules as he prepares for the final showdown of the 2025 Truck Series in Phoenix. With “Corey Heim NASCAR playoff concerns” growing louder, the reigning favorite for the championship questions whether the system truly rewards season-long excellence.
Heim’s Record-Breaking Season Faces Uncertainty
This season, Heim, age 23, has dominated the NASCAR Truck Series like few before him. He has claimed 11 race victories—setting a new benchmark for the most wins in a single Truck Series season. His relentless pace and consistency have positioned him as the top contender for the championship. However, despite his impressive run, NASCAR’s playoff format means all his achievements could be at risk in a single decisive race.
Criticism of Winner-Take-All Format
As the final at Phoenix approaches, Heim’s frustrations with the playoff system have come to the forefront. During a recent press conference, he expressed worry that luck, rather than season-long consistency, could determine the title. Changes to the NASCAR playoff format have been hinted at for 2026, but for now, details remain undisclosed and criticism continues from drivers and fans alike regarding its fairness.
Heim directly addressed this unpredictability, stating,
You can kind of suck all year and just bring your best truck to Phoenix and you can win the championship.
— Corey Heim, Driver
He also highlighted fellow competitor Ty Majeski’s position in the standings as evidence of how the current playoff rules can reward a strong finish over consistent performance throughout the year. Heim pointed out,
I mean, look at them (Majeski) like, they’ve not been the best, I don’t think they have a win to their name this year, but they’re probably the truck to beat along with us next weekend.
— Corey Heim, Driver
Preparation and Confidence Despite System Doubts
Despite his critiques, Heim remains focused and optimistic about his chances in the upcoming race. He mentioned that unexpected events, like an aggressive move at the start in Phoenix, could undo a season’s worth of hard work—a factor that continues to trouble many drivers operating within the current playoff structure. Even so, his confidence is bolstered by his team’s dedication and strategic preparation for the finale. Notably, after his Martinsville win, Heim revealed he had done little simulation work for that event, indicating that the crew had prioritized perfecting their setup for Phoenix above all else.
Looking Toward Phoenix and Potential Reform
The outcome at Phoenix will not only decide the 2025 NASCAR Truck Series champion but could provide further grounds for debate over the playoff system. As Heim and competitors like Ty Majeski gear up for the championship race, questions around consistency versus one-race performance will persist. With possible changes hinted for the 2026 season, this final race may influence NASCAR’s future playoff reforms, driven in part by drivers’ firsthand experiences and vocal concerns. For now, Corey Heim and his team are determined to make their season’s efforts count when it matters most.
Corey Heim's press conference was interesting in that he let on to the issues he has with NASCAR's championship format and its winner-take-all system. As historically dominant as his season has been, "You can kind of suck all year and just bring your best truck to Phoenix and you… pic.twitter.com/LkTOU1WU2i
— Steven Taranto (@STaranto92) October 25, 2025
