Ty Gibbs celebrates his victory in NASCAR’s first In-Season Challenge at Indianapolis.
Success in motorsports, as in life, is based on the audacity to take risks. As Wayne Gretzky rightly said, “you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” This philosophy, which has led many to success, also applies to NASCAR, which is in a moment of innovation and experimentation.
You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.
Wayne Gretzky
In the past, NASCAR made radical changes that were not always well received by fans. However, today, the organization seems to have learned from its mistakes and is implementing new ideas with greater caution and planning.
An example of this new mentality is the organization of events such as the Major League Baseball game at the Bristol Motor Speedway. Although some purists may question the idea, NASCAR is willing to try new things and learn from the experience.
Joey Logano, Cup champion, highlights the importance of this willingness to innovate, as long as the fundamental values that have defined NASCAR over the years are maintained.
The inclusion of races on street circuits and the revitalization of historic tracks like North Wilkesboro are examples of this strategy. The rotation of the championship weekend to different tracks, starting at Homestead-Miami Speedway, demonstrates the search for new experiences for fans.
This combination of tradition and modernity is key to maintaining the balance and growth of NASCAR. Instead of fearing mistakes, the organization accepts them as part of the process and moves forward with new ideas.
Ben Kennedy, NASCAR vice president, highlights the importance of honoring the past while exploring new frontiers. The organization is willing to try new things, and if they don’t work, learn from them and move on.
The return of the Clash to Bowman Gray Stadium, a place with a rich history for NASCAR, is an example of this connection to the past. NASCAR is willing to try new things, and if they don’t work, learn from them and move on.Chase Elliott, winner of the Clash at Bowman Gray this year, shares this vision. Flexibility and a willingness to try new things are fundamental to the growth of NASCAR.
The 2020 pandemic forced NASCAR to adapt quickly, leading to the implementation of new strategies and the relaxation of schedules. This allowed the organization to break free from old habits and adopt a more dynamic business model.
As the release of the 2026 Cup Series schedule approaches, NASCAR is in a period of experimentation. Races have been held in Mexico and Chicago, and events in Nashville and Indianapolis have been revived. In addition, a street race at a naval base in San Diego was announced for Father’s Day 2026.
The In-Season Challenge, which initially generated skepticism, became a platform to highlight young talents like Ty Gibbs and Ty Dillon.
The future of NASCAR is uncertain, but exciting. The organization is committed to maintaining classic events like the Daytona 500 and the Southern 500, while exploring new ideas and formats.
Successful ideas, such as the Clash relocation and the revitalization of North Wilkesboro, will be maintained. Events that worked in the past are expected to return, and efforts will be made to reinvent those that were innovative at the time.
NASCAR is working on improving the points system and is looking to incorporate a new manufacturer. Calculated risks are being taken, learning from past experiences and seeking a promising future for the sport.
