NASCAR is at a crossroads, and the debate over its future is heating up. Should the sport return to its roots with a 36-race points-based season, or is the current playoff format the way forward? Brad Keselowski, a former NASCAR champion, team owner, and driver, has a unique perspective on this contentious issue—and he’s not holding back. But here’s where it gets controversial: Keselowski believes the sport’s identity is at stake, and he’s not alone in his push for change.
In a recent conversation with the media at Talladega, Keselowski addressed the growing chorus of drivers, fans, and insiders advocating for a return to the 36-race format. His insight is particularly compelling because he’s experienced the sport from multiple angles—both as a competitor during the Chase era and as a current team owner. So, what’s driving this momentum, and why does Keselowski think it’s the best path for NASCAR’s future?
‘The sport is really interesting in how it perceives itself,’ Keselowski noted, via Jeff Gluck of The Athletic. ‘It’s one of the few sports with a noticeable negative feedback loop, but it’s also a ‘squeaky-wheel-gets-the-grease’ kind of world.’ In other words, if no one speaks up, nothing changes. And right now, the drumbeat for a 36-race format is getting louder because many believe it’s what NASCAR needs to thrive.
What began as Mark Martin’s social media campaign has evolved into a legitimate movement. Just two years ago, this idea seemed far-fetched, but now it feels like it’s on the brink of becoming a reality. Keselowski isn’t one to make demands, but when he speaks, people listen—even if they don’t always agree. His reasoning is always well-thought-out, and this time is no exception.
‘The sport has revealed itself to be heavily influenced by its own spin,’ Keselowski explained. He believes the current playoff format has shifted NASCAR’s focus from a season-long battle of races connected by a championship to a championship connected by races. And this is the part most people miss: That shift has stripped away some of the ‘big-event’ feel that made NASCAR so special in its heyday. Keselowski argues that NASCAR needs 38 big events—not just a few high-stakes playoff races—to ensure its longevity.
But is he right? The decision ultimately lies with the France family, who own the sport, and Keselowski respects that. However, he’s convinced that a 36-race, season-long format is the best way to reconnect with NASCAR’s roots and secure its future. ‘We need to return to a series of races connected by a championship, not the other way around,’ he emphasized.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: NASCAR is at a turning point. While a modified playoff format is currently slated for 2026, nothing is set in stone. So, here’s the question for you: Is Keselowski onto something, or is the current playoff system the way to go? Do you agree that NASCAR needs to reclaim its ‘big-event’ identity, or is the sport better off as it is? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this is one discussion you won’t want to miss!
