France not sure points system needs change

NEW YORK (AP) -- Bill France Jr., retired chairman of NASCAR but still a power in the stock car sport, isn't convinced the points system needs to be changed.

The system, in place since 1972, with some small alterations in 1975, places a premium on consistency, rewarding drivers who finish races.

Matt Kenseth took the 2003 title despite winning only one race -- the first time that has happened since Benny Parsons took the championship in 1973.

But Kenseth failed to finish only two of 36 races and totaled 25 top 10s.

Meanwhile, Ryan Newman won a series-high 11 poles and eight races, failed to finish seven times and wound up sixth.

"The champion doesn't have to win eight races and he doesn't have to win a race in a given year," France said.

"But he's got to meet some kind of subjective test where the media is not writing that we've got some palooka that has won the championship. He's got to have respect.

"I'm totally satisfied that Matt Kenseth meets that test. I have not read anywhere or heard anywhere that Matt Kenseth is not a credible champion."

France was succeeded as NASCAR boss by his son, Brian, who said Thursday the points system will be reviewed over the offseason "as we do every year."