NASCAR has unveiled a sweeping revision of its 2027 Cup Series schedule, a move that will reshape the way the championship is contested. The series plans to overhaul the 2027 Chase for the Cup by removing Bristol Motor Speedway’s Night Race from the postseason and returning it to a regular‑season slot in August.
Playoff reshuffle aims to keep the championship fresh
Darlington Raceway and World Wide Technology Raceway (Gateway) are also expected to leave the 2027 Chase, according to Jordan Bianchi’s report for The Athletic. The Night Race at Bristol was previously an elimination event under NASCAR’s old playoff format but will no longer serve that role in 2027.
Richmond Raceway, New Hampshire Motor Speedway and Watkins Glen International will replace the outgoing tracks in the 2027 Chase. Watkins Glen will move to September, ensuring a road course remains part of the postseason, while Richmond’s Southern 500 will adjust its Labor Day weekend placement to accommodate calendar constraints.
The 2027 Chase will feature ten races, with the top sixteen drivers after twenty‑six regular‑season events qualifying for the championship run. This structure is intended to balance tradition and competition, avoiding scheduling conflicts and maintaining a varied championship run.
Tracks expected to remain in the 2027 Chase include Kansas Speedway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway and Phoenix Raceway. North Wilkesboro Speedway is a leading candidate to host the 2027 NASCAR All‑Star Race, having previously held the event from 2023 to 2025.
NASCAR has not yet confirmed the official 2027 schedule, and the changes remain subject to revision as calendar logistics and sponsor agreements are finalized.