What Is The Racing Series Below NASCAR?

NASCAR’s tier system provides a structured pathway for drivers to advance their careers. The NASCAR Xfinity Series stands as the second-highest level of competition in NASCAR racing. It serves as a proving ground for aspiring Cup Series drivers and a competitive arena for seasoned veterans.

The Xfinity Series originated from NASCAR’s Sportsman division, established in 1950 as a short track racing category. Over the decades, it evolved through various names and sponsorships, including the Busch Grand National Series and the Nationwide Series. Since 2015, Comcast’s Xfinity brand has held the title sponsorship.

Races in the Xfinity Series often take place as support events for Cup Series weekends, allowing fans to experience multiple levels of NASCAR competition. The series features a mix of up-and-coming talent and experienced drivers, creating exciting racing action and close championship battles throughout the season.

Understanding the NASCAR Hierarchy

NASCAR‘s structure includes multiple racing series with different levels of competition and vehicle specifications. These series form a progression ladder for drivers and teams.

Differentiating Racing Series

The NASCAR Cup Series sits at the top of the hierarchy as the premier division. It features the most advanced cars and highest-profile drivers. Below the Cup Series is the NASCAR Xfinity Series, often called the “second-tier” series. It serves as a proving ground for up-and-coming drivers and teams.

The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series ranks third in the hierarchy. This series showcases modified pickup trucks in competitive races. The ARCA Menards Series functions as a developmental league, preparing drivers for higher levels of NASCAR competition.

NASCAR’s Position in Auto Racing

NASCAR holds a prominent place in the world of auto racing, particularly in stock car competition. The organization sanctions over 1,500 races annually across its various series. These events take place predominantly in North America.

NASCAR’s top divisions attract significant media attention and fan followings. The Daytona 500, which opens the Cup Series season, stands as one of the most prestigious races in motorsports. Other notable events include the Coca-Cola 600 and the All-Star Race.

The points system in NASCAR rewards drivers based on their finishing positions in each race. This system determines champions in each series, with the Cup Series title being the most coveted prize in stock car racing.

NASCAR Xfinity Series Explained

The NASCAR Xfinity Series serves as the second tier of NASCAR’s national racing divisions. It acts as a proving ground for aspiring drivers aiming to reach the top-level Cup Series.

Xfinity races typically feature 30-36 drivers per event, compared to the maximum 40 in Cup races. The cars used in this series have slight differences from their Cup counterparts.

Xfinity vehicles have a shorter wheelbase of 105 inches, while Cup cars measure 110 inches. This small variation affects handling and performance characteristics.

The Xfinity Series schedule consists of 33 races annually, fewer than the Cup Series’ 36 points-paying events. Many Xfinity races take place on Saturdays as support events for Sunday Cup races.

Since its inception in 1982, this series has undergone several name changes due to sponsorship. It was known as the Busch Series and Nationwide Series before adopting the Xfinity name in 2015.

Xfinity races provide an opportunity for drivers to build their skills and fanbases. The series attracts a mix of young talents and experienced Cup drivers looking for additional track time.