NASCAR has announced that it will no longer use the phrase "regular season champion" and will instead label the points leader entering the postseason as the "No. 1 seed". The decision was made public during the "Hauler Talk" podcast by Managing Director of Racing Communications Mike Forde, who said the move reflects a broader effort to simplify the sport’s messaging.
Redefining the Regular Season
The new terminology follows extensive feedback from NASCAR’s playoff committee, competitors, and fans who felt the old label was confusing. By adopting "No. 1 seed", the organization aims to keep the focus squarely on the driver who ultimately wins the Cup Series championship at Homestead‑Miami Speedway in November.
The change arrives just days before the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 26, one of the final races before the championship phase begins. The race will serve as a critical checkpoint for drivers vying for the top seed, which carries specific advantages once the 10‑race postseason kicks off.
Implications for Drivers and Fans
Veteran driver and Hall of Famer Mark Martin weighed in, noting that "drivers do not play; they race and compete," underscoring the competitive spirit behind the new branding. The No. 1 seed will still earn benefits tied to finishing first in the regular‑season standings, even though a separate trophy will no longer be awarded.
NASCAR emphasized that it is not concerned with external descriptions of its format and will use the updated language in all official communications. The shift aligns with the series’ return to a Chase‑style championship structure for 2026, which features a full regular season followed by a ten‑race postseason where performance in the regular season directly influences playoff positioning.