The upcoming Toyota Save Mart 350 at Sonoma Raceway will be the first event to test NASCAR’s revised qualifying architecture, a change that promises to reshape how drivers battle for pole position.
Under the new format, the 40‑car field will be divided into two equal groups. Each group will receive a 20‑minute window during which drivers can make as many timed runs as they wish. Times from both sessions will be aggregated, and the fastest overall laps will dictate the complete starting lineup.
The methodology hinges on a two‑variable metric that was introduced in 2025, combining sector‑time performance with overall lap speed to produce a more nuanced ranking. This metric will be applied uniformly across both groups, ensuring that the final order reflects a blend of qualifying pace and race‑run efficiency.
The race is slated to be part of TNT’s 2026 NASCAR Cup Series broadcast schedule, and the network will air the event live at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time on June 28. The television partnership underscores TNT’s commitment to delivering comprehensive coverage of the series’ most pivotal weekends.
Fans can expect a more dynamic qualifying experience, as the shortened, high‑stakes sessions are designed to increase on‑track action and reduce the reliance on single‑lap attempts. Drivers, meanwhile, must balance aggression with consistency to maximize their combined scores.
Implications for the Championship
While the new system does not alter the points structure, it adds a strategic layer to the season’s early stages, forcing teams to adapt their setup philosophies and risk management. Analysts predict that the format could lead to unexpected pole sitters and may influence race strategies throughout the event.