Once qualifying is over, the field is set by merging the highest ranked 35 teams in the owner standings with the fastest seven cars not in those 35 positions, in the order of their qualifying speeds.
The 43rd position is reserved for a former champion, provided he is not already qualified and satisfies the rulebook's criteria.
If unused by a former champion, it goes to the next fastest car in qualifying. The lone exception is the Daytona 500, which uses qualifying and two 150-mile races to determine the field.
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Driver Standings Official
Schedule
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