NASCAR is actively examining its playoff format for the 2026 season, and this potential shift could be significant for Chase Elliott championship chances, as industry voices believe format changes may benefit the Hendrick Motorsports driver’s pursuit of a second Cup Series crown. Experts suggest that extending the championship sample size beyond a single race could play to Elliott’s strength in consistent performances over the course of the playoffs rather than just excelling in a winner-takes-all finale.
Chase Elliott secured his first Cup Series title in 2020. His driving style and results have long demonstrated steady, top-tier finishes rather than a heavy reliance on streaks of race victories. While Elliott has occasionally taken the checkered flag, including two wins this past season, his overall approach has centered around a strong, reliable presence throughout multiple races.
Experts Analyze Possible Format Shift and Its Impact on Elliott
During a recent PRN’s Fast Talk episode, Brad Gillie, a respected NASCAR analyst, delved into how any changes to the playoff system might influence Chase Elliott’s quest for another championship. He pointed out that Elliott’s best results come during extended stretches where consistency is rewarded. Gillie shared his insights on what kind of playoff system would be most advantageous for the driver from Hendrick Motorsports.
“I feel like the longer the sample size in the championship run in the playoffs, the more favorable it becomes to Chase Elliott and their talent is in consistency. Yes, they can go up there and win races, but he’s not had a season like he’s had since his championship year in 2020.”
– Brad Gillie, NASCAR Analyst
Gillie further noted:
“A handful of things have happened along the way, but I really feel like their strength is not going to be in winning one race for a title, but being the best over four or over 10. So depending on what the format is, I feel depends on how much it will favor Chase Elliott in a second championship.”
– Brad Gillie, NASCAR Analyst
Doug Rice, who serves as PRN President and is the network’s lead anchor, also voiced optimism about Elliott’s prospects if he competes at a high level for a full season, as he did late in 2025. This broader support for longer playoff formats comes at a time when NASCAR’s existing system—a single-race final—remains controversial. For now, reports indicate that NASCAR is considering keeping the current structure, despite ongoing debates about fairness and excitement.
Elliott’s Popularity and 2025 Performance Stand Out
Separately, Chase Elliott’s appeal among fans remains unmatched as he was voted the National Motorsports Press Association’s Most Popular Driver for the eighth year in a row. Expressing gratitude in a press event, Elliott directly thanked his supporters for their dedication over the years.
“Just really grateful for the people that have supported me throughout my career. I feel like I have some of the best fans that you can have, and the most passionate too. I was just trying to show my appreciation and my gratitude towards the people that obviously took the time to vote and take time out of their day to do that.”
– Chase Elliott, Driver
Elliott’s 2025 season concluded with an eighth-place finish in the final championship standings. Over the course of the year, he delivered two victories, notched 11 top-five and 19 top-10 results, and led 454 laps, averaging a twelfth-place finish across 36 races. These statistics underline not only his competitive flair but also his consistency in a highly demanding field.
What the Playoff Discussion Means for the Future
The ongoing dialogue about NASCAR’s playoff format and Chase Elliott’s championship ambitions brings added intrigue to upcoming seasons. Should NASCAR eventually move towards a structure that awards long-term reliability and steady results, analysts like Brad Gillie and Doug Rice suggest Elliott could become an even stronger threat in the fight for the Cup Series title. At the same time, Elliott’s enduring popularity—evidenced by his NMPA Most Popular Driver awards—hints at a driver who is just as significant off-track as he is on it. As NASCAR weighs its options, the outcome has the potential to impact not only Elliott’s journey but the shape of the championship battle for seasons to come.
Chase Elliott's consistency could be his secret weapon. If he races like he did in late 2025, his chances at a championship are high. It's about being the best over the long haul, not just winning one race. #NASCAR #ChaseElliott pic.twitter.com/V8Pw79p9US
— PRN (@PRNlive) November 14, 2025
