# NASCAR Chase format changes

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/nascar-chase-format-changes
> Updated: 2026-10-08T11:56:37.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 2.

NASCAR has announced that the 2026 Chase will return to oval racing at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, North Carolina. This decision replaces the ROVAL road course format in response to fan demand for the traditional 1.5-mile oval. 

The event is designated as the second ‘Elimination Race’ in the championship playoffs, serving as a critical stage leading toward the season finale in November at Homestead-Miami. 

In the current championship standings, Kyle Larson maintains his lead in the Chase with a 40-point advantage over Denny Hamlin and a 55-point lead over Christopher Bell. Other key competitors include Joey Logano and Ryan Blaney, who trail the leaders by 71 and 80 points, respectively.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-08: Layne Riggs wins NASCAR Truck race at Charlotte; NASCAR Brasil confirms Chapecó oval

Layne Riggs won the NASCAR Truck Series Ecosave 200 at Charlotte, narrowing Kaden Honeycutt's championship lead. Meanwhile, NASCAR Brasil confirmed Chapecó as an oval venue for the 2026 playoffs.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nascar-brasil-confirms-chapec-oval-track-for-2026-playoffs

### 2026-10-08: NASCAR returns to Charlotte oval for 2026 Chase

NASCAR is returning to the Charlotte Motor Speedway oval for the 2026 Chase following fan requests, with Kyle Larson maintaining his championship lead.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nascar-returns-to-charlotte-oval-for-2026-chase

---
Cite as: NASCAR Chase format changes. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/nascar-chase-format-changes