LEBANON, Tenn. — Bubba Wallace is feeling optimistic about NASCAR’s current momentum, buoyed by new collaborations with various media outlets. This optimism coincides perfectly with the launch of NASCAR’s “In-Season Challenge.” Wallace admitted, however, that he almost forgot about this new competition. “For me to forget and then remember how thrilling it was when it was first announced shows it’s going to captivate the fans,” Wallace shared.
Kyle Larson, who recently attempted the “Double” — competing in both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 — is another driver who seemed to have overlooked the start of this new challenge. “I haven’t seen much promotion about it; it’s easy to forget,” Larson commented.
NASCAR rolled out this new in-season competition back in May 2024, allowing drivers to concentrate on seeding during the latter half of the season. The format is straightforward: 32 drivers compete for their rankings throughout three races starting at Michigan, with the seeding stage ending at Pocono and the main five-race challenge beginning in Atlanta.
As the competition intensifies, it will follow a single-elimination format, trimming the starting field to 16 at Chicago, eight at Sonoma, four at Dover, and concluding with the final two battling it out at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. A grand prize of $1 million awaits the winner, in coordination with the new media rights that include TNT coverage. “It’s something entertaining to keep an eye on, especially with such a prize,” remarked Larson, who holds the 2021 Cup Series championship.
Chris Buescher of RFK Racing is among those who seemed unaware of the imminent launch of the challenge. After a points penalty at Kansas in May, Buescher remains focused on securing race wins. “That’s significant money,” Buescher admitted, “but we need to maintain our racing strategy and secure wins. There’s more on the line come year’s end than just this prize.”
Joey Logano, a three-time Cup Series champion, likened the event’s prize to the stakes in the All-Star Race. “It’s a race within the race,” Logano explained. “So, you don’t want to compromise too much.”
Meanwhile, Denny Hamlin’s initial excitement waned upon discovering the number of road courses involved in this challenge. “We’re hoping for some luck or a good draw. I’d prefer more traditional ovals,” Hamlin noted, noting his preference against the current selection.
Brad Keselowski and his No. 6 Ford team, right on the edge of the qualifying line for this new venture, were absorbed in this season’s focus. However, Keselowski anticipates enjoyment once the competition unfolds. “It’s positive for the sport, our fans, and provides another layer of competition,” Keselowski stated, highlighting their approach to take one race at a time.
In parallel news, Team Penske has all three drivers locked for the NASCAR Cup playoffs after Ryan Blaney secured his first season victory in Nashville. Blaney, winner since November, joined counterparts Austin Cindric and three-time champion Joey Logano in the playoffs, with Josh Berry also victorious at Las Vegas.
Michael Nelson, representing Team Penske’s NASCAR division, expressed relief with their secure playoff spots. “It takes pressure off and allows us to experiment for more wins,” Nelson said. “We’re thrilled to reach this stage.”
Additionally, Carson Hocevar equaled his career-best performance by maneuvering from 26th to second place at Nashville. However, his aggressive tactics caught Ricky Stenhouse Jr.’s attention after Hocevar caused Stenhouse to crash. Stenhouse described Hocevar’s drive as overly aggressive and plans to address it with the young driver—though not right then. “No — that’s too costly,” Stenhouse quipped.