What Is the NASCAR Championship Called Now?

NASCAR’s premier championship has undergone several name changes throughout its history. The top-level NASCAR championship is currently known as the NASCAR Cup Series. This name reflects a shift away from title sponsorships that previously defined the series.

The Cup Series represents the pinnacle of stock car racing in North America. It features the most skilled drivers competing in high-powered vehicles on a variety of tracks across the United States. The championship crowns the best performer over a grueling season of races.

NASCAR’s top-tier series has had various titles in past decades. Previous incarnations included the NASCAR Winston Cup Series, NASCAR Nextel Cup Series, and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. These names reflected major corporate sponsors that partnered with NASCAR to promote the championship.

Evolution of the NASCAR Championship

NASCAR’s championship format has undergone significant changes since its inception. These changes reflect the sport’s growth and efforts to enhance competition and fan engagement.

Transformation through Sponsorships

The NASCAR championship title has changed names several times due to sponsorship agreements. From 1949 to 1970, it was known as the Grand National Series. In 1971, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company became the title sponsor, renaming it the Winston Cup Series. This partnership lasted until 2003.

Nextel Communications took over sponsorship in 2004, rebranding the championship as the Nextel Cup Series. Sprint acquired Nextel in 2008, leading to the Sprint Cup Series name. In 2017, Monster Energy became the title sponsor, creating the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series.

Since 2020, the championship has been called the NASCAR Cup Series, dropping corporate sponsorship from its official title.

The Playoff System

In 2004, NASCAR introduced a playoff-style format called “The Chase” to determine the champion. This system replaced the season-long points accumulation method used since 1949.

The initial Chase format included the top 10 drivers competing over the final 10 races. In 2007, NASCAR expanded it to include 12 drivers. 2014 saw further changes with the introduction of elimination rounds and a Championship 4 finale.

The current playoff system, implemented in 2017, features 16 drivers competing over 10 races. It includes three elimination rounds, culminating in the Championship 4 race where the highest finisher among the four remaining contenders wins the title.

Prominent Figures in the NASCAR Cup Series

NASCAR’s top-level competition has seen legendary drivers and teams shape its history. These individuals and organizations have left an indelible mark on the sport through their achievements and contributions.

Legacy of Champions

Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt stand as the most successful drivers in NASCAR Cup Series history, each with seven championships. Known as “The King,” Petty dominated the 1960s and 1970s, setting records that still stand today. Earnhardt, nicknamed “The Intimidator,” became a fan favorite for his aggressive driving style and consistent success throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

Jeff Gordon revolutionized NASCAR in the 1990s and early 2000s, capturing four championships and helping to broaden the sport’s appeal. Jimmie Johnson matched Petty and Earnhardt’s record with seven titles, all won between 2006 and 2016.

Other notable champions include David Pearson, Cale Yarborough, and Darrell Waltrip, each with multiple titles and numerous race wins to their names.

Contemporary Stars

Kyle Busch and Joey Logano lead the current generation of NASCAR Cup Series drivers. Busch, known for his versatility, has won championships in 2015 and 2019. Logano claimed titles in 2018 and 2022, showcasing his consistency and skill on various track types.

Chase Elliott, son of former champion Bill Elliott, has become a fan favorite and won the 2020 championship. Kevin Harvick, the 2014 champion, remains competitive in his final full-time season.

Rising stars like Ryan Blaney, Tyler Reddick, and William Byron have shown promise, with each securing multiple wins and playoff appearances in recent years.

Preeminent Teams

Hendrick Motorsports stands as the most successful team in NASCAR Cup Series history, with a record 14 championships. The organization has fielded cars for legends like Gordon and Johnson, as well as current stars Elliott and Kyle Larson.

Team Penske has been a powerhouse, winning championships with Brad Keselowski and Logano. The team’s drivers consistently contend for wins and playoff spots.

Joe Gibbs Racing has captured five championships since 2000, with drivers like Tony Stewart, Kyle Busch, and Martin Truex Jr. Stewart-Haas Racing, co-owned by Tony Stewart, has also emerged as a top team, winning titles with Harvick and Kurt Busch.