Explain NASCAR Points

NASCAR is the premier racing league in the United States. A new champion is crowned each year thanks to a point system that rewards not only individual race victories but also consistent performance throughout the season.

  1. Function

    • The NASCAR season consists of 36 races over 10 months. After the first 26 races, the top 12 drivers have their point totals reset to 5,000, plus 10 points for every victory, and compete for the championship over the season's final 10 events.

    Features

    • The NASCAR point system awards 185 points for a victory and 170 points for finishing second. Five points separate each place between second and sixth. Four points separate each place between sixth and eleventh. Three points separate each finish between eleventh and last place.

    Considerations

    • Each driver who leads at least one lap is awarded five bonus points. The driver who leads the most laps receives an additional five bonus points. This means the most points available for one driver is 195.

    Significance

    • The driver who finishes with the most points is awarded the Sprint Cup as the season's champion.

    History

    • NASCAR began using a point system in 1949. The current version was instituted in 2007, with point alterations made to give more significance to race victories.