NASCAR Introduces Major Rule Changes for 2025, Including 41st Starting Position
NASCAR announced significant rule changes for the 2025 season, introducing several key modifications to enhance competition and race procedures.
A major update includes the new Open Exemption Provisional, allowing a 41st starting position for world-class drivers from other series. Teams must request this provisional 90 days before an event. While winners using this provisional earn official race wins and All-Star Race eligibility, they cannot receive points, playoff points, or prize money.
NASCAR cars racing at Daytona
The Cup Series Damaged Vehicle Policy (DVP) has been revised, allowing teams to return to the race after garage repairs without a time limit. Pit road repairs remain subject to a seven-minute clock (eight minutes at Atlanta), with teams required to move to the garage if repairs exceed this time.
Other significant changes include:
- New manufacturer violation penalties, including point deductions and restrictions on wind tunnel hours and CFD runs
- Modified playoff waiver rules: drivers missing races forfeit playoff points, starting the postseason with 2,000 points maximum
- Exceptions for medical reasons, child birth, and family emergencies
- Updated "100% rule" focusing on race outcome manipulation
- Non-appealable NASCAR decisions on playoff waivers
These revisions aim to improve competition while maintaining fair play across all aspects of NASCAR racing.
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