Keselowski and Logano Clash Over New NASCAR Points Format

Drivers argue over merits of NASCAR's new Chase-style points system during plane rides to and from Phoenix race

Mar. 11, 2026 at 7:37pm

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NASCAR drivers Brad Keselowski and Joey Logano engaged in heated debates over the sport's new points format during flights to and from the recent race in Phoenix. Keselowski is a supporter of the new Chase-style system that determines the Cup Series champion, while Logano prefers the previous playoff format that Logano had success with, having won three championships. The new format awards points to the top 16 drivers over a 10-race Chase, with the champion being the driver with the most points at the end.

Why it matters

The disagreement between two of NASCAR's top drivers highlights the ongoing debate over the merits of the new points system, which aims to create more excitement and drama in determining the season champion. Keselowski's criticism of the previous playoff format aligns with concerns that it incentivized teams to strategize around earning playoff spots rather than focusing on winning races throughout the season.

The details

Keselowski revealed that he and Logano, along with drivers Clint Bowyer and Ryan Blaney, spent much of their plane rides to and from the Phoenix race arguing over the new points format. Logano preferred the old playoff system, which he had success in, while Keselowski is a 'staunch supporter' of the new Chase-style format. Keselowski previously criticized the playoff format, saying it 'didn't make any sense' and that teams would strategize to help drivers earn playoff spots rather than focusing on winning races.

  • The disagreement occurred during flights to and from the recent NASCAR race in Phoenix, Arizona.

The players

Brad Keselowski

A NASCAR Cup Series driver who is a supporter of the new Chase-style points format that determines the season champion.

Joey Logano

A NASCAR Cup Series driver who prefers the previous playoff format, having won three championships under that system.

Clint Bowyer

A NASCAR Cup Series driver who was present during the debates between Keselowski and Logano.

Ryan Blaney

A NASCAR Cup Series driver who was present during the debates between Keselowski and Logano.

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What they’re saying

“I flew back with Ryan Blaney, Joey Logano, Clint Bowyer, and it's interesting the different perspectives that just our small group has on the points format. Probably not a surprise, Joey Logano wished we stayed with the old system, and Clint and I spent the majority of two different plane rides back and forth to Phoenix arguing with Joey on why we like this new format.”

— Brad Keselowski, NASCAR Cup Series Driver

What’s next

The debate over the new NASCAR points format is likely to continue as drivers and fans weigh the merits of the new Chase-style system versus the previous playoff format.

The takeaway

The disagreement between Keselowski and Logano highlights the ongoing debate within the NASCAR community over the new points format, with drivers having differing perspectives on the merits of the new system versus the previous playoff format. This debate reflects the broader challenge of balancing excitement and drama with fairness and consistency in determining the season champion.