NASCAR driver Corey Heim rises as series adopts new Chase format

NASCAR driver Corey Heim is establishing himself as a significant competitor in the Cup Series despite limited starts. The Georgia native has secured two victories in just 15 starts, including a win at Naval Base Coronado and the Brickyard 400. Following his success as a defending Truck Series champion, Heim is scheduled to move into a full-time Cup Series ride with 23XI Racing beginning in 2027.

In tandem with rising talent, NASCAR has implemented a redesigned postseason format for 2026 known as ‘The Chase’. Moving away from the previous elimination-based system, the new format focuses on consistency and points. The top 16 drivers in the standings after 26 regular-season races qualify for the postseason, where the championship is decided by outscoring competitors over the final 10 races. Notably, regular-season wins no longer guarantee an automatic berth, placing higher value on a driver's total points accumulation.