The 2024 NASCAR season came to a dramatic close, with surprise champions crowned across all three series. While Phoenix Raceway hosted another exciting finale, NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. believes it’s time for a change. On his Dale Jr. Download podcast, the legendary driver called for the season finale to rotate venues, adding that a fresh approach could enhance the sport’s appeal.
Phoenix’s Run: Great but Time for Change
Though Dale Jr. expressed respect for Phoenix Raceway’s ability to deliver great racing and fan experiences, he argued that keeping the finale in one location limits the excitement of the sport.
“Should we race somewhere else for the final race of the year? We probably should move it around,” Earnhardt Jr. said. “I think that Phoenix has had a great run. But I’ve got to give Phoenix credit—they have put a ton of money into that racetrack.”
What Phoenix Does Right
Earnhardt was quick to acknowledge the strengths of Phoenix as a venue. From its fan-friendly amenities to its revamped facilities, the track has earned its spot in NASCAR’s calendar.
“It’s not a bad facility to go and have a good experience. You can move around, there’s a lot of room in all the garage areas as a fan, the media center’s great. All of the interior and exterior of the racetrack is cooled, and there’s tons of camping,” he explained.
However, even the best facilities might not be enough to keep fans engaged year after year, with many calling for a more dynamic approach to the season finale.
The Case for Rotating the Finale
Rotating the championship race could bring fresh excitement and allow other iconic tracks to shine. Tracks like Homestead-Miami, Martinsville, or even new venues could bring unique challenges and amplify the spectacle of crowning a NASCAR champion.
Junior’s idea is rooted in the belief that a new venue each year would generate more storylines and showcase the diversity of NASCAR’s circuits. The move could also reinvigorate fan interest by giving different regions of the country the chance to host the grand finale.
Playoff Format: Staying the Course
Another hot topic is the playoff format itself. Critics argue that the system rewards a single-race win too heavily, potentially overshadowing consistent season-long performances. However, Earnhardt Jr. defended NASCAR’s playoff system, emphasizing its role in creating drama and engagement.
“There’s no going back to the season-long championship format. It’s just not going to happen,” Junior declared. “NASCAR is trying to find the best version of this format, and it will keep changing until they get closer to that.”
While tweaks to the system are likely, Earnhardt acknowledged that the playoff-style championship has become a cornerstone of modern NASCAR.
The Verdict: A New Era Awaits?
Dale Jr.’s call for rotating the season finale aligns with a broader desire among fans and drivers for variety and unpredictability. While Phoenix Raceway has set a high standard, moving the championship race could breathe new life into NASCAR’s most crucial weekend.
As the sport evolves, NASCAR has the chance to embrace innovation while staying true to its roots. Whether it’s through new venues, refined formats, or bold decisions, the road to crowning a champion could become as thrilling as the race itself.