NASCAR Playoffs Under Scrutiny as Drivers Return and Teams Shift

The NASCAR Cup Series playoffs have moved away from the traditional win‑and‑advance format, a change that has drawn criticism from fans and drivers alike. In the latest race at Las Vegas, Chase Briscoe claimed victory while Kyle Larson and Tyler Reddick were involved in a wreck as Larson chased Briscoe. Former champion Tony Stewart has publicly called the sport “neutered,” citing lower horsepower and a perceived loss of excitement; he will compete in the Truck Series at Talladega on Oct. 23 to promote a Dodge Ram. Meanwhile, 46‑year‑old Kasey Kahne announced a return to full‑time Truck Series racing next season after a four‑year retirement, and Brad Keselowski is leaving Roush‑Fenway Racing as his five‑year contract expires, amid reports of a potential shift to a managerial role.