Overview
- A January 16 rulebook update codifies the return to a 10‑race Chase and removes all references to the playoffs across national series.
- A new OEM provisional grants up to four spots (37th–40th) for a brand‑new manufacturer in its first three events if entries miss on speed, awarding points but no prize money; the move, expected to aid RAM’s Truck debut with Kaulig, drew public criticism including from Dale Earnhardt Jr.
- Fastest‑lap eligibility changes bar cars that enter the garage under the Damaged Vehicle Policy from earning the bonus point, though laps set before garage entry still count.
- Lug‑nut enforcement in the O’Reilly and Truck series shifts to tiered penalties that escalate from loss of pit selection and fines with suspensions to disqualification when only 16 of 20 are secure.
- Driver rules tighten with the O’Reilly minimum age lowered to 17 at tracks 1.25 miles and shorter and on road courses, Cup points drivers blocked from junior‑series Chase events, and waiver guidance clarifying that NASCAR‑initiated absences no longer reset a driver’s Chase start while other waivers begin at 2000 points with reseeding decisions final.