The Chase for the Cup format may have launched in 2004, but the debate around NASCAR’s playoff system has never been louder. Fans are demanding change, drivers are speaking out, and even former NASCAR professionals want to see something different. But there’s one group that seems perfectly content with the current chaos: the TV networks.
Why Won’t NBC Sports Push for Changes to NASCAR’s Playoff Format?
The frustration is palpable throughout the NASCAR community. Fans, drivers, and former NASCAR professionals are calling for changes to the playoff format and the way it crowns its champions. However, only TV partners seem to find excitement in this format, while everyone else believes it diminishes the value of a driver’s hard work throughout the entire 2025 season.
Jeff Behnke, NBC Sports’ vice president of NASCAR, recently shared his perspective on the playoff system. His response was diplomatically brief: “We’ll let NASCAR sort out their vision, and we will produce those playoff races to the best of our ability.”
.@NBCSports‘ vice president of NASCAR, Jeff Behnke, on whether @NBC has a particular preference on NASCAR’s playoff format and how involved it’s been in the study of it: “We’ll let NASCAR sort out their vision, and we will produce those playoff races to the best of our ability.” pic.twitter.com/PHXnFIx0un
— Adam Stern (@A_S12) July 30, 2025
Behnke’s statement suggests NBC isn’t actively preventing NASCAR from making changes to its playoff format, at least not publicly. The network has been a significant part of NASCAR’s broadcasting landscape for years, working diligently since 2015 to deliver compelling racing entertainment to viewers. Yet they claim they’re not influencing the governing body on how to crown its champions.
What’s Really Happening Behind Closed Doors With NASCAR’s Playoff Committee?
Earlier in 2025, NASCAR assembled a special Playoff Committee consisting of around 30 to 40 people, including various personalities throughout the sport, to gather feedback regarding the current playoffs format.
Journalist Jeff Gluck reported that the group has already convened twice this season, and the majority in the room advocated for changes. At one point, there appeared to be a strong possibility that the one-race finale might be replaced with an alternative format.
However, Gluck also revealed that TV networks like NBC still prefer the winner-takes-all championship race. While the committee provides feedback, they don’t make the final decision. This contradicts what Behnke stated publicly. NASCAR understands that alienating its broadcast partners isn’t an option, considering the substantial financial support they provide.
Fans had plenty to say after reading Behnke’s statement on social media. One wrote, “In other words, ‘Don’t blame us for not wanting to change it.'” Another responded, “Lol exactly what answer did everyone think he would give? Sounds like a bunch of finger pointing, which typically leads to no solution.”
Another fan commented, “sounds like they still want a playoff.. I still prefer a full-season championship but if they really want a playoff then go back to. What made the chase work in the 2000s.”
Meanwhile, Gluck acknowledged that NASCAR faces mounting pressure to release next year’s schedule as time runs short. Fans eagerly await changes to the format, though Gluck believes modifications won’t happen just yet.