The NASCAR playoffs as we know them are, finally, over.

January 12 - NASCAR's Cup Series future will be a blast from the past as the original 10-race postseason returns in 2026 with 16 drivers battling it out for the title over the final two months.

After months of deliberation, the four-round postseason endeavor and winner-take-all finale have been thrown out for a 10-race mini-season to crown a champion.