NASCAR Unveils Major Rule Changes for 2025, Including 41-Car Fields
NASCAR announced significant rule changes for the 2025 season, introducing several key modifications to enhance competition and inclusivity.
A notable addition is the Open Exemption Provisional, allowing a 41st starting position for elite drivers from other racing series. Teams must request this provisional 90 days before an event. While these entries can secure official race wins and All-Star Race eligibility, they cannot earn points, playoff points, or prize money.
The Cup Series Damaged Vehicle Policy (DVP) receives a major overhaul. Teams can now:
- Tow or drive damaged vehicles to the garage
- Return to the race after repairs without a garage time limit
- Continue using the 7-minute pit road repair clock (8 minutes at Atlanta)
- Must meet minimum speed requirements upon return
New manufacturer penalties have been implemented, including:
- Manufacturer point deductions
- Reduced wind tunnel testing hours
- Limited computational fluid dynamics (CFD) runs
Changes to playoff waiver rules state that drivers missing races will forfeit all current and future playoff points before the postseason, starting with 2,000 points maximum. Exceptions apply for:
- Medical reasons
- Child birth
- Family emergencies
- Age restrictions on larger tracks
NASCAR cars racing at Daytona
The updated rules also address race manipulation, with modified language in the 100% rule. NASCAR's decisions on playoff waivers cannot be appealed.
These comprehensive changes aim to improve competition while maintaining sporting integrity for the 2025 season.