Every fall, the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) Playoffs deliver some of the most intense racing of the season, but if you’re new to the sport, or just want a refresher, you may be wondering “How exactly do the NASCAR Playoffs work?” Let’s break it down:
The Format: 16 Drivers | 10 Races
The Playoffs kick off with 16 drivers, determined by regular-season wins and points standings. These drivers battle through a series of elimination rounds across 10 playoff races. Each round cuts the field smaller until only four drivers remain to race for the championship.
Rounds Explained
- Round of 16: After three races, the four lowest-ranking playoff drivers are eliminated.
- Round of 12: Another three races then four more are eliminated.
- Round of 8: Just eight contenders fight for a spot in the Championship 4 over the course of three races.
- Championship 4: One final race where the four remaining playoff drivers compete to be the highest-finishing of the four, therefore winning the championship.
How to Advance
Drivers can move forward by winning a playoff race (automatic advancement) or by collecting points through finishing position, laps led and stage wins. Every lap counts, making late-race strategy and bold moves critical.
Why It’s So Exciting
The format creates “win-and-you’re-in” drama, where even one bold performance can shift the entire championship picture. For fans, that means every stage, pit stop and pass could be the difference between elimination and glory.
Don’t miss the playoffs action at New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS), Sept. 19-21, for New England's only NCS Playoffs race. You’ll see this intensity first-hand as the Round of 12 kicks off – a pivotal moment in the road to the championship.
Don’t miss your chance to watch history unfold. Get tickets and info at NHMS.com.
