NASCAR Basics

Point System

A race winner can earn a maximum of 195 points. More

The Chase

Twelve drivers qualify for the Chase for the Cup. More

Glossary

Get up to speed on the lingo and what it means. More

Money Distribution

Race winnings are handed out on a sliding scale. More

Special Awards

These payouts are the race inside the race.
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Special Events

The must-see spectacles include non-points races.
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Statistics

In-depth look at drivers' seasons via Loop Data.
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The Commission

An independent board handles appeals process.
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Executives

Brian Z. France oversees sport as Chairman, CEO.
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The men whose vision shaped today's NASCAR:

NASCAR History

Birth of a sport

Bill France Sr.'s vision of a legitimate stock-car racing organization came to pass on Feb. 15, 1948.
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50 Greatest Drivers

In 1998, during NASCAR's 50th anniversary season, the all-time best drivers were chosen.

Select a driver to get a synopsis of his career.

Women of NASCAR

• Carolyn Carrier
• Jody Deery
• Corinne Economaki
• Juanita "Lightnin'" Epton
• Anne B. France
• Janet Guthrie
• Tammy Jo Kirk
• Patty Moise
• Shawna Robinson
• Louise Smith
• Lisa Smokstad
• Julie Stefanik
• Patti Wheeler

The Daytona 500

What to know about the Great American Race.

• 1959: The Inaugural
• Most Memorable 500s
• History of the 500
• The Building of DIS

Quick Links

• Evolution of Stock Car
• Introduction of the COT
• A-Z Driver Page Index
• Modern Race Winners
• Car Number History

Fan Guide

A quick primer to enhance your at-track experience:

• This is NASCAR
• Race Weekend
• Track Jargon
• Race Strategy
• Racing Tires
• Anatomy of Pit Stop
• Inside the Cockpit
• NASCAR Racecar
• Around the Track
• Initiatives, Charities

Decade by Decade

• Cup champions
• Rookies of the Year
• Most Popular Driver

Famous Families

• The Allisons
• The Earnhardts
• The Flocks
• The Frances
• The Jarretts
• The Labontes
• The Pettys
• The Woods

Names to Know

"Smokey" Yunick stayed ahead of his time.
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Junior Johnson remains The Last American Hero.
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SAFER Barriers

On-track safety being taken to the open road.
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Safety Initiatives

National Series

Nationwide Series continues to evolve.
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Truck Series has built competitive reputation.
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NASCAR Home Tracks