NASCAR Insiders Deliver Bold Verdict On Playoffs After 2024 Backlash

The NASCAR playoff system is under scrutiny following public backlash in the 2024 season. Despite the criticism, industry expert Jordan Bianchi has asserted that no major redesign is on the horizon. Instead, he heralds the playoffs as an essential element of the racing calendar.

The current NASCAR playoff format, which dictates the champion of the Cup Series, dates back to 2004 with significant modifications in 2014 to introduce an elimination-style competition. This system begins with 16 drivers selected by regular-season wins and points, narrowing down to a decisive final race in Phoenix.

Despite calls for change after Joey Logano’s unexpected championship win—an outcome seen as not reflective of season performance given his 17.1 average finish, the worst among champions—experts suggest realignment, not overhaul, is more applicable.

Speaking on The Teardown podcast, Bianchi commented on the backlash and if changes could be made to the playoff system:

“The Playoff format isn’t going to change. I’ll say, before the last 20 laps of this race, or whatever it was, this was a damn good playoff race.

“This underlined the fact of why this playoff format is so good, because you had (Ryan) Blaney and (Chase) Elliot and I’ll throw (Kyle) Larson in there, and you had (Denny) Hamlin’s great run from the back, which is going to get overlooked today.

“All these guys are going at it, the gloves are off, they’re racing hard but clean – physical but clean – and they’re going for the win. This is a byproduct of the Playoff system, and it was fantastic to watch unfold. And it’s not going to change, I’m sorry. This playoff format is here to stay.”

NASCAR President Steve Phelps has also defended the format’s ability to deliver a dramatic end to the season. He explained:

“The format is the format. And we are always looking if there are opportunities for us to tweak something, so be it.

“We are not the only sport where the best statistical team does not get to the Final Four or the Super Bowl or the World Series. The format — there was a huge emphasis put 10 years ago when the format was put into place about winning. Three of the four on Sunday, they won to get through. I go back to the format itself I think creates incredible racing.”

Despite mixed reviews, NASCAR’s viewership remains robust, evidenced by a 1% increase across events and a notable 6% surge in playoff ratings. Approximately 2.895 million viewers tuned in for the championship race.