The NASCAR Cup Series is approaching its 10-race playoff format, culminating in the championship event at Phoenix Raceway on November 10.
Sixteen drivers qualify for the playoffs either by winning a regular-season race or by accumulating the most points among those who have not yet won, following 26 races.
At the commencement of the playoffs, the four drivers with the lowest point totals among the 16 will be eliminated after the third race. Another four will be cut after the sixth race, followed by another four after the ninth, which will leave four drivers to compete for the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series championship.
If a playoff driver secures a victory during any of the three rounds, they will automatically move on to the next round. When non-playoff drivers win, the advancement of playoff drivers will be determined by the points they’ve accumulated throughout the rounds.
Here’s further information regarding the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs and championship race:
When and where do the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs begin?
The NASCAR Cup Series playoffs kick off on Sunday, September 8, at Atlanta Motor Speedway. The race is slated to start at 3 p.m. ET and will be aired on USA Network.
How many races are part of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs?
The NASCAR playoffs consist of a total of 10 races, which includes the NASCAR Cup Series Championship race on November 10. These 10 playoff races follow the 26 regular-season races.
How many rounds are in the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs?
The NASCAR Cup Series playoffs are organized into three rounds, with three races in each round. The races occurring third, sixth, and ninth are designated as elimination events.
How many drivers make the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs?
A total of sixteen drivers will compete in the playoffs, each vying to advance and claim the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series championship. Additionally, non-playoff drivers will also compete in each race weekend and may secure victories despite not being in the playoffs.
When is the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race?
The season finale will take place at Phoenix Raceway on Sunday, November 10, at 3 p.m. ET. NBC will provide coverage of the championship race.
What is the complete schedule for the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs?
Below is the schedule that outlines the dates, tracks, times, and television coverage for each of the 10 races during the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs (also available for streaming on Fubo):
(All times are in Eastern)
- Sunday, Sept. 8: Atlanta Motor Speedway, USA, 3 p.m.
- Sunday, Sept. 15: Watkins Glen International, USA, 3 p.m.
- Saturday, Sept. 21: Bristol Motor Speedway, USA, 7:30 p.m.
- Sunday, Sept. 29: Kansas Speedway, USA, 3 p.m.
- Sunday, Oct. 6: Talladega Superspeedway, NBC, 2 p.m.
- Sunday, Oct. 13: Charlotte Roval, NBC, 2 p.m.
- Sunday, Oct. 20: Las Vegas Motor Speedway, NBC, 2:30 p.m.
- Sunday, Oct. 27: Homestead-Miami Speedway, NBC, 2:30 p.m.
- Sunday, Nov. 3: Martinsville Speedway, NBC, 2 p.m.
- Sunday, Nov. 10: Phoenix Raceway, NBC, 3 p.m.
How many races are left before the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs start?
There are three races remaining before the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs commence, which includes the ongoing race at Michigan International Speedway that was halted due to rain. The FireKeepers Casino 400 will continue on Monday, Aug. 19 at 11 a.m. ET and will be broadcasted on USA Network. The final two races of the regular season are:
- Saturday, Aug. 24: Daytona International Speedway, 7:30 p.m. ET (NBC)
- Sunday, Sept. 1: Darlington Raceway, 6 p.m. ET (USA)
Which drivers have secured spots in the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs?
Drivers can secure playoff spots through victories in the regular season. Below are the 12 drivers who have achieved at least one win this season, along with their respective wins and points prior to the Cup Series race at Michigan:
Kyle Larson 4 (779); Denny Hamlin 3 (758); Christopher Bell 3 (701); William Byron 3 (678); Ryan Blaney 2 (702); Tyler Reddick 1 (774); Chase Elliott 1 (773); Brad Keselowski 1 (636); Alex Bowman 1 (615); Joey Logano 1 (557); Daniel Suarez 1 (497); Austin Cindric 1 (451).
NOTE:
Austin Dillon triumphed in the race at Richmond Raceway on August 11; however, just three days later, NASCAR revoked his automatic playoff spot after a review of the race’s final lap and communications from the Richard Childress Racing No. 3 team. On that last lap, Dillon collided with both Joey Logano and Denny Hamlin before crossing the finish line. Richard Childress Racing has filed an appeal against the penalty.
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Gear Up for the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs: Schedule, Format, and Key Drivers
Understanding the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs Format
The NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs is one of the most thrilling and competitive formats in motorsport. The 2024 season will see a continuation of the playoff format introduced in previous years, consisting of three rounds culminating in the Championship Race. Here’s how it works:
- Playoff Structure: The playoffs consist of 16 drivers competing in three rounds. The first two rounds eliminate four drivers each, leading to the final round, where the last four drivers vie for the championship.
- Points System: Each driver starts with a base points total, and additional points can be earned through stage wins, overall race wins, and finishing in the top 10.
- Elimination Process: After each of the first two rounds, the four drivers with the lowest points totals are eliminated from the playoffs.
2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs Schedule
The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs will feature a mix of iconic tracks and fan-favorites. Here’s a breakdown of the schedule:
| Race | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Round of 16 – Race 1 | September 15, 2024 | Darlington Raceway |
| Round of 16 – Race 2 | September 22, 2024 | Kansas Speedway |
| Round of 16 – Race 3 | September 29, 2024 | Bristol Motor Speedway |
| Round of 12 – Race 1 | October 6, 2024 | Talladega Superspeedway |
| Round of 12 – Race 2 | October 13, 2024 | Charlotte Motor Speedway |
| Round of 12 – Race 3 | October 20, 2024 | Martinsville Speedway |
| Round of 8 – Race 1 | October 27, 2024 | Texas Motor Speedway |
| Round of 8 – Race 2 | November 3, 2024 | Phoenix Raceway |
| Championship Race | November 10, 2024 | Homestead-Miami Speedway |
Key Drivers to Watch in the 2024 Playoffs
The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs will feature some of the most talented drivers in the sport. Here are a few key contenders to keep an eye on:
- Denny Hamlin – A perennial contender, Hamlin has consistently performed well in the playoffs, making him a favorite for 2024.
- Chase Elliott – Known for his fan-favorite status and impressive skills on the track, Elliott will look to add another championship to his resume.
- Kyle Larson – With his aggressive driving style and recent successes, Larson is a strong candidate to advance deep into the playoffs.
- Joey Logano – The 2022 champion is always a threat in the playoffs, especially with his strategic racing mentality.
- Ryan Blaney – With a series of strong finishes leading into the playoffs, Blaney is poised for a breakout performance.
Benefits of Following the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs
Tuning into the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs offers numerous benefits for fans and aspiring racers alike:
- Excitement: The high-stakes nature of the playoffs creates an electrifying atmosphere that is hard to match.
- Community: NASCAR fans share a deep bond, and the playoffs bring fans together through events, watch parties, and social media interactions.
- Inspiration: Witnessing top drivers overcome challenges can inspire individuals to pursue their dreams, whether in racing or other endeavors.
Practical Tips for Enjoying the Playoffs
To make the most of your NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs experience, consider these practical tips:
- Watch Live: Catching the races live, either at the track or on television, enhances the experience significantly.
- Engage on Social Media: Follow drivers, teams, and NASCAR on social media for real-time updates and behind-the-scenes content.
- Join Fan Events: Look for local viewing parties or fan events where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and celebrate the sport.
Case Study: A Look at the 2023 Playoffs
The 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs showcased some remarkable performances and dramatic moments. Here’s a brief overview:
- Surprise Eliminations: Some heavy hitters were eliminated earlier than expected, shifting the dynamics of the competition.
- Unexpected Winners: Lesser-known drivers clinched victories, proving that anything can happen in the playoffs.
- Fan Engagement: Social media interactions peaked during the playoffs, with fans passionately supporting their favorite drivers.
First-Hand Experience: Attending a NASCAR Race
Attending a NASCAR race, particularly during the playoffs, is an unforgettable experience. Fans often describe the atmosphere as electric, with roaring engines, cheering crowds, and the thrill of competition.
Here’s what to expect:
- The Vibes: The energy at the track is palpable, especially as the playoff races unfold.
- Access to Drivers: Many tracks offer fan access where you can meet drivers, get autographs, and take photos.
- Concessions and Merchandise: Enjoy delicious food options and pick up exclusive merchandise to commemorate your experience.
Conclusion: Get Ready for the Thrill of the 2024 Playoffs!
As the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs approach, fans are gearing up for an exhilarating season filled with excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments. With a solid schedule, a competitive format, and several key drivers to watch, this year’s playoffs promise to deliver an epic showdown on the racetrack.
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