Upcoming NASCAR Races: The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series schedule, unveiled in early October, brings several notable shifts, particularly concerning Daytona International Speedway.
Traditionally known as the season opener in February, the Daytona 500 maintains its revered spot. However, the Coke Zero Sugar 400, a fixture at the track, has experienced schedule adjustments, despite retaining its date.
Originating in 1959, the race traditionally occurred on Independence Day weekend in July, with a single exception in 1998 due to wildfires in central Florida, prompting a mid-October postponement.
In 2020, it found a new home on the final weekend of August, and from 2020 to 2023, it served as the regular season finale, lending an extra layer of unpredictability in shaping the 16-driver playoff grid, just before Labor Day weekend.
Looking ahead, the upcoming Coke Zero Sugar 400 is slated for Saturday, August 24, positioned as the 25th of 26 races preceding the playoffs, altering its previous regular season climax role.
NBC’s commitment to covering the Summer Olympics in Paris, France, has led to two consecutive off weekends during the Cup Series schedule over the summer. Following the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 21, there’s a hiatus until August 11.
Consequently, the Coke Zero Sugar 400 maintains its chronological place but occupies a race ahead of its prior position. Darlington Raceway, meanwhile, steps in to conclude the regular season with the Cook Out Southern 500 on September 1, taking over the traditional season-ending role.
Post this shift, the season unfolds without any more off weekends until its conclusion, set to wrap up a week later than recent years, with Phoenix Raceway hosting the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race on November 10.
The playoff schedule has undergone tweaks too. Notably, Darlington’s relocation to the regular season’s end and the exclusion of Texas Motor Speedway from the playoffs. Atlanta Motor Speedway and Watkins Glen International join the round of 16, while Kansas Speedway moves from the round of 16 to the round of 12, replacing Texas. Beyond these adjustments, the playoff schedule mirrors the 2023 format.
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Our Reader’s Queries
How many NASCAR races will there be in 2023?
Get ready for an exciting season of NASCAR’s 75th anniversary with the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series schedule! With 36 races in total, fans can expect non-stop action and intense competition. Keep up with the latest results and stay in the know with CBSSports.com. As the premier source for all things NASCAR, we’ve got you covered with the most up-to-date information on the season. Don’t miss a beat and join us for an unforgettable year of racing.
Is the NASCAR 2024 schedule out yet?
On October 4, 2023, the 2024 schedule was unveiled, featuring 31 oval races, 4 road course races, one street track race, and 4 non-championship races on ovals. Please note that race names and title sponsors are subject to change, and not all title sponsors/names of races have been announced for 2024.
Who is the richest NASCAR driver?
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is undoubtedly the wealthiest and most renowned NASCAR driver, with a staggering net worth of $300 million. His success on the track and off has made him a household name, and his popularity shows no signs of waning.
What new car is coming to NASCAR?
Toyota unveiled its latest addition to the NASCAR Cup Series on Monday, revealing the Camry XSE Next Gen for the 2024 season. The race car boasts a sleek new design and bears the iconic Camry nameplate. This exciting release is sure to turn heads and make waves in the racing world.
