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NASCAR Drops Championship Bombshell: Is Phoenix’s Reign Ending?

Simon Monroy by Simon Monroy
December 17, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 5 mins read
0
NASCAR Drops Championship Bombshell: Is Phoenix’s Reign Ending?

Nov 10, 2024; Avondale, Arizona, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver William Byron (24) races alongside Christopher Bell (20) during the NASCAR Cup Series Championship race at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The winds of change are swirling through NASCAR, and fans are loving it. After years of growing frustration over the stagnant championship finale, NASCAR COO Steve O’Donnell just cracked the door open for what could be the sport’s most exciting shake-up in years: moving the championship race to a rotating venue.

For once, NASCAR fans are buzzing with excitement—and not just about the possibilities, but about NASCAR’s willingness to listen.


Phoenix: A Solid Host, But Is Change Inevitable?

Since taking over as the Cup Series finale in 2020, Phoenix Raceway has been the steady home for NASCAR’s championship showdown. Its perfect November weather, modern $178 million renovations, and sellout crowds have made it a solid, if unspectacular, choice.

But O’Donnell hinted that while Phoenix has been reliable, NASCAR isn’t ready to rule out a shake-up. Speaking recently, he told media:

“Phoenix has been an incredible host… But I think you’d have a broader look at venues that could host a championship. Short term, we’re in Phoenix, we’re extremely happy there, but we want to grow the sport.”

Translation? Phoenix is safe for now—2025’s finale is booked—but beyond that, nothing is off the table.


Why Fans Are Thrilled About a Rotating Finale

NASCAR fans have been calling for variety for years. Phoenix, despite its strengths, has lacked the thrill and unpredictability fans crave for a championship showdown. The suggestion of rotating venues could inject fresh energy into the finale, giving fans across the country a chance to experience NASCAR’s biggest moment live.

From Las Vegas to Atlanta and beyond, fans have been throwing out their dream locations:

  • Las Vegas Motor Speedway stands out as a natural contender, thanks to its entertainment options, mild climate, and growing status as a racing hub.
  • Atlanta Motor Speedway, once home to the championship from 1987 to 2000, is also back on fans’ radars. One enthusiast mused, “How awesome would it be to see Atlanta host the finale again?”
  • Others got a bit more playful, with one fan joking, “They’re about to bring it to Daytona—four-wide racing for the championship!”

Of course, not everyone is on board. Critics argue that changing the venue could shift the competitive balance, depending on which drivers excel at certain tracks. A rotating finale brings variety, but it also raises questions: Will a superspeedway favor some drivers over others? Would a road course shake up the championship dynamic entirely?


A Smart Business Move for NASCAR

Beyond fan excitement, a rotating championship finale could be a financial jackpot for NASCAR. Hosting the finale is a massive economic boost for local markets, and NASCAR could leverage hosting fees and partnerships with municipalities to make the rotation financially lucrative.

It’s a win-win scenario: Fans get the variety they crave, and cities across the country get a chance to showcase their tracks.


Where Could NASCAR Go Next?

With the championship race traditionally held in November, weather is key—no one wants a rain-soaked finale. Here are the frontrunners:

  1. Las Vegas – World-class entertainment, perfect weather, and a proven NASCAR audience.
  2. Homestead-Miami – The historic former finale venue remains a fan favorite.
  3. Atlanta – A nostalgic return to an iconic track that could deliver thrilling championship battles.
  4. Texas or Charlotte – Both offer warm weather and high-quality tracks with massive fan bases.

Fans Finally Feel Heard

For years, NASCAR has faced backlash for its big decisions, but O’Donnell’s comments mark a refreshing shift: NASCAR is listening. A rotating championship finale could give the sport the energy boost it desperately needs, especially in the era of the Next Gen car.

As one fan put it: “I’m so glad NASCAR is finally considering this. The championship race needs a shake-up—it’s long overdue.”


Is Change Coming? The Final Verdict

While Phoenix has been a reliable home, the appetite for change is undeniable. Whether it’s Las Vegas, Atlanta, or somewhere entirely unexpected, the days of a static NASCAR finale may be numbered.

The ball is now in NASCAR’s court, and for once, it feels like they’re ready to play. For fans dreaming of a bigger, better championship finale, the 2026 season might just deliver the shake-up they’ve been waiting for.

Buckle up—NASCAR’s most thrilling chapter may be just around the corner. Where do YOU want the championship race to go next?

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