NASCAR Teams Reject 'Run What You Brung' Format Amid Cost Concerns

NASCAR considered introducing a 'Run What Ya Brung' format for the upcoming All-Star Race, allowing teams greater freedom to modify their cars in hopes of improving short-track racing. However, teams declined the proposal, citing high costs and limited returns, with Denny Hamlin estimating that preparing unique, one-off cars would cost teams more than the $1 million prize. Hamlin argued that the modifications required would render the cars unusable for other races, making the expense unfeasible for teams. NASCAR officials disputed Hamlin's cost estimates, suggesting that the format could have cost teams little or even saved money, but acknowledged that not everyone in the industry supported the idea at this time. Ultimately, NASCAR decided to pivot away from the experimental format after industry feedback, opting for a more conventional approach to the All-Star Race this year. The discussion highlights ongoing tensions between innovation, competition costs, and the desire to enhance fan engagement.