Kevin Harvick, the 2014 NASCAR Cup Series champion, has publicly supported NASCAR’s recent decision to revert to its original chase format, a move that is expected to reshape competition across all national stock car racing series. This shift, which will once again see 16 drivers battle over a 10-race chase for the Bill France Cup, emerges following widespread calls from the community yearning for a more authentic championship structure—something Harvick refers to as a restoration of racing’s purity.
NASCAR Community Reacts to Changing Championship Structure
Anticipation has grown among fans and professionals alike after it was confirmed that the “winner takes all” approach is being abandoned. This transition reintroduces the ensemble 10-race shootout for the championship, ensuring that every contest in the season contributes to the final standings. Kevin Harvick voiced his approval of this direction during an appearance at a CARS Tours event alongside his son, Keelan Harvick, drawing on his extensive experience as both a competitor and team owner.
What’s old is new again… The Cup series in NASCAR is what the parade. When they go to playoffs formats and change things, or restarts, or whatever it is, they are the leader of the racing industry.
Kevin Harvick said via the Short Track Scene.
Harvick emphasized that NASCAR, as a longstanding industry leader, sets the standards not only for its premier division but also for grassroots motorsports nationwide. This significant reversal, according to Harvick, will influence championship dynamics and rules across short track events, reflecting what he describes as a return to the essence of the sport.
Wider Implications for Short Track and Grassroots Racing
As one of the former Stewart Haas Racing drivers, Harvick asserts that this renewed focus on integrity in championship formats reverberates beyond the Cup Series. He points out that similar reforms are already visible in other domains—such as Dirt Late Model Racing and the Lucas Oil Series—suggesting a broader momentum toward traditional championship values throughout the racing world.
That kind of sets a tone for the short tracks. I think you’ll probably see some of that back up. We saw that in Dirt Late Model Racing, Lucas Oil, Late Models, are back up on their championship formats.
Kevin Harvick added.
By reinstating proven championship structures, Harvick believes racing series at every level are moving to ensure competition remains fair and meaningful. Recent developments mirror changes in national stock car racing, echoing through the sport’s grassroots, including regional circuits and local events.
Renewed Focus on Every Race and the “Purity” of the Sport
Reinforcing his passionate perspective, Harvick underscores how this shift addresses concerns voiced by both fans and professional drivers who felt the previous format compromised the integrity of championships. By requiring consistent performance throughout the season, each weekly contest regains its influence on the ultimate outcome, reaffirming the legacy of drivers who succeed via both endurance and skill.
The racers, they like the purity of what we do. And having every week matter, you can’t be out here… They run 40-45 dirt races this year. And a lot of these guys will chase championships, and they want every week to matter.
Kevin Harvick asserted.
With the new approach, the championship recognizes those competitors who excel across the full spectrum of scheduled races, no longer placing disproportionate emphasis on the season-ending event. Harvick’s remarks highlight the unity across the community in seeking legitimacy and authenticity in crowning champions.
CARS Tour Series Embarks on Ambitious Growth
During the same conversation, Harvick shared insights into developments in the CARS Tour—a series in which he is deeply involved as an owner. The upcoming season will introduce a new Pro Late Model structure with both Northwest and Southwest divisions, broadening competitive opportunities. Alongside these new divisions, the series will continue to feature Super Late Models, Limited Late Models, and Legends events, representing a robust and diverse calendar for drivers at various stages of their careers.
We just want good events for the racers. It’s not always about the Cars Tour. It’s about trying to create great events for the racers, so it’s fun to see it all come together.
Kevin Harvick said.
He stresses that the guiding principle for the CARS Tour expansion is to offer valuable and enjoyable experiences for racers, rather than focusing solely on the prestige of the series itself. The changes being made are rooted in the desire to foster capacity for growth among participants, challenging them in varied formats while promoting a spirit of friendly—and earnest—competition.
Shaping the Future of Stock Car Racing
The comprehensive nature of recent changes, from top-tier NASCAR Cup Series regulations to the evolving grassroots and regional scenes, signals a pivotal moment for the industry. With championship legitimacy restored as a priority, stakeholders—from owners to up-and-coming drivers—are optimistic about a more competitive, merit-based environment.
As the sport undergoes this transformation, figures such as Kevin Harvick play an instrumental role in championing these values, paving the way for an era where every lap, race, and strategy can define the outcome. The next season promises not just a refreshed format, but a renewed sense of purpose and anticipation for the racing community as a whole.
Kevin Harvick details the expansion of CARS Tour West and the development of son Keelan. pic.twitter.com/9GoCOVxPhN
— Short Track Scene (@ST_Scene) January 17, 2026
