NASCAR is set to unveil a significant change to its championship format on January 12, sparking speculation about how consistency will shape the future of the sport. Brad Keselowski, reflecting on the forthcoming adjustments, indicated that fans can expect more emphasis on consistent performance—a shift that could redefine strategies for drivers and teams. The focus keyword, “Brad Keselowski on NASCAR format,” underscores the anticipation around this new approach within the racing world.
Keselowski Highlights Shift Toward Rewarding Consistency
Brad Keselowski shared his perspective with Fox Sports’ Bob Pockrass ahead of NASCAR’s official announcement, giving insight into what competitors might face under the updated championship system.
It will certainly reward consistency at a much higher level,
Keselowski told Pockrass.
I think we’re excited about that.
The comments suggest that the current elimination-style playoff format may be replaced by a structure designed to better acknowledge consistent results throughout the season.
Evaluating Possible Directions for the New Format
Speculation about the incoming format has centered on structures that historically prioritized cumulative performance, such as NASCAR’s former full-season points system. That format, which ran until 2003, offered no postseason and demanded steady results from start to finish. However, its vintage appeal may not resonate with today’s audience, who expect drama and unpredictability alongside consistency.
Another leading possibility is an evolution of the existing elimination format, perhaps featuring an extended championship round instead of the current high-stakes, single-race finale. Alternatively, NASCAR could revisit the 10-race postseason, commonly known as “the Chase,” which was in place from 2004 to 2013. Keselowski claimed his only Cup Series championship under this format in 2012, and as an owner-driver with RFK Racing, he may benefit from a system that values steady achievement over sporadic victory.
Impact for Teams and Drivers in the Competitive Field
The current roster at RFK Racing, featuring Brad Keselowski, Chris Buescher, and Ryan Preece, exemplified consistency throughout the 2025 season, each amassing a strong slate of top-10 finishes. Keselowski found a groove towards the season’s end, and both Buescher and Preece proved to be reliable top-15 competitors week after week. In a format where cumulative performance could take precedence, drivers like these stand to gain a competitive edge over teams reliant on flashier but less constant results.
Anticipating the Consequences of a Consistency-Focused Era
If NASCAR’s revised championship format indeed prioritizes consistency, teams and drivers will likely have to adapt both race strategy and season planning. An increased emphasis on delivering strong results every weekend, rather than relying on a handful of standout performances, could reshape the balance of power throughout the Cup Series. As the community waits for NASCAR’s Monday announcement, competitors and fans alike are preparing for a notable shift—one that could leave a lasting imprint on how champions are crowned and how the sport is contested.
NASCAR will announce its new championship format Monday afternoon. Brad Keselowski said he expects it to reward consistency more: pic.twitter.com/1KDCXD1ZnV
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) January 9, 2026
