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The NASCAR Cup Series is the top level of American stock car racing. Full-bodied race cars run in tight packs at speeds that rattle the grandstands. Fans love the close racing, the bump-and-run rivalries, the pit-road drama and the sound of a full field thundering past at once. It is also a sport built on loyalty. Families pick a driver, a number and a manufacturer, and many stick with them for life.
NASCAR was founded in 1948 by Bill France Sr. in Daytona Beach, Florida. Its roots lie in Southern dirt tracks and the lore of home-built cars tuned for speed. The top series has carried several names, including Grand National and Winston Cup, before becoming the Cup Series. The Daytona 500, first run in 1959, grew into its biggest race, and national TV coverage turned a regional pastime into a major American sport.
How it works
- Qualifying sets the starting order, so a fast lap can be worth a lot of track position.
- Races start under the green flag. Caution flags bunch the field, and restarts are where many battles begin.
- Pit stops matter: tires, fuel and quick work by the crew can win or lose spots on pit road.
- Drivers earn points across the season, and a championship playoff decides who takes the title.
Standings
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2026 schedule
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Fan tips
- Bring ear protection. Cup cars are very loud, and it's a good idea for kids and adults alike.
- Consider a scanner or radio app so you can hear driver and crew chatter and follow strategy.
- Arrive early to enjoy the pre-race buzz, and bring sunscreen, a hat and a seat cushion for long days.
- Pick a driver to follow and learn the basics of drafting and pit strategy. Races get more fun once you know what to watch.
Legends of NASCAR Cup
Books, biographies and collectibles about the series' greats.
FAQ
What is the NASCAR Cup Series?
It is the premier national stock car racing series in the United States, run by NASCAR. Teams race powerful, purpose-built cars with stock-style bodies on ovals, road courses and other tracks.
Why is the Daytona 500 such a big deal?
It has been run since 1959 at Daytona International Speedway and is widely seen as NASCAR's most prestigious race. Winning it can define a driver's career, no matter how the rest of the season goes.
What is drafting?
Drafting is when cars run closely nose to tail so the lead car punches a hole in the air and the trailing car gets less drag. It lets groups of cars go faster than a single car alone, and it's a big part of superspeedway racing.
How long does a Cup race last?
It varies by track. Many races run several hours, and the Daytona 500 and Coca-Cola 600 are named for their distances. Rain or crashes can also add delays, so allow plenty of time.