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NASCAR Championship Shake-Up? Rotating Final Race Gains Momentum

Harry Bright by Harry Bright
January 9, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 4 mins read
0
NASCAR Championship Shake-Up? Rotating Final Race Gains Momentum

Nov 10, 2024; Avondale, Arizona, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Kyle Larson (5) races alongside William Byron (24) during the NASCAR Cup Series Championship race at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

For five consecutive years, Phoenix Raceway has been the epicenter of NASCAR’s season finale, hosting Championship 4 showdowns under the blazing Arizona sun. But with fans clamoring for change and prominent voices like Kevin Harvick calling for a rotation, NASCAR’s brass is finally hinting at a shake-up.

While Phoenix has the infrastructure and history—bolstered by a $178 million facelift in 2018—many argue it lacks the high-stakes thrill that a title-deciding race demands. Enter NASCAR COO Steve O’Donnell, who hasn’t ruled out a rotational format:

“I would not limit something just to Miami… you’d have a broader look at venues that could host a championship.”

With NASCAR looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, let’s explore where the future of the Cup Series finale might lie:


Las Vegas Motor Speedway: The Diamond in the Desert

When it comes to glitz, glamour, and fanfare, Las Vegas ticks all the boxes. A 1.5-mile oval with a proven track record, it’s located in the entertainment capital of the world, making it a perfect stage for a season finale.

Kevin Harvick—a two-time Vegas winner—endorsed it wholeheartedly:

“I’d love to see Las Vegas Motor Speedway have a championship race.”

With 80,000 seats and ideal November weather, Vegas would bring spectacle and drama to NASCAR’s biggest moment.


Homestead-Miami Speedway: A Fan Favorite

Homestead has long been the sentimental favorite. From Tony Stewart’s epic 2011 victory to Jimmie Johnson’s dynasty-defining moments, the 1.5-mile track has delivered unforgettable finales.

NASCAR owns the facility outright, which makes logistics easier. Plus, its progressive banking ensures thrilling multi-groove racing—a key ingredient for a championship decider.


Other Dark Horses for the Finale

  1. Charlotte Roval
    Combining road-course challenges with high-speed oval racing, the Roval would offer a unique and unpredictable finale—one that rewards skill and strategy.
  2. Nashville Superspeedway
    A track with history and buzz, Nashville could leverage its country-music culture to create a championship weekend like no other.
  3. Atlanta Motor Speedway
    Recently reconfigured, Atlanta races like a superspeedway—high speeds, pack racing, and thrilling unpredictability. That’s a recipe for drama in a title race.

New Qualifying and Practice Changes for 2025

While the championship debate rages on, NASCAR has already introduced single-round qualifying for 2025, excluding superspeedways.

Key changes include:

  • 25-minute practice sessions for better on-track preparation.
  • Two qualifying rounds at Daytona, Talladega, and Atlanta.
  • Road-course qualifying split into two 20-minute sessions for separate groups.
  • A 50-minute practice for the Daytona 500 to appease drivers seeking more track time.

The Bottom Line

NASCAR’s willingness to explore rotational venues for the championship race signals a new era of fan engagement and innovation. Whether it’s Las Vegas, Homestead, or a wildcard track like Charlotte, the stakes are clear: NASCAR needs a final race worthy of its champions.

With changes to practice and qualifying already in place for 2025, the future looks brighter—and a little bolder—for America’s favorite motorsport.

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