Way Before Denny Hamlin and Dale Earnhardt Jr’s Criticisms, Hendrick Motorsports Legend Jimmie Johnson Reflected on “Naughty” NASCAR Aspect

Apparently, the current NASCAR playoff format has turned into a matter of concern for many. Recently, Denny Hamlin shared his thoughts about the changes he wishes to see in the NASCAR Round of Four. And before that, Dale Earnhardt Jr. raised concerns over the same.

However, before Hamlin and Earnhardt, Jimmie Johnson called out the ‘naughty’ playoff format way back in 2016. In an episode of Young Hollywood, Johnson, along with Chase Elliott, discussed the NASCAR Playoff format, which was relatively new back then. During his conversation, Johnson explained that the drivers will have to run 36 races over the entire course of the season.

Furthermore, he shared that they would consider the first 26 as the regular season, while the rest would be a part of the playoffs. Also, Johnson revealed that all 40 cars will race around the year. But when they reach the final 10 events, only 16 drivers will be eligible for the championship. 

However, he added, “And to make it more confusing, every three races four drivers are eliminated and then we get down to the final race in Homestead where there are four drivers that are eligible for the championship. Winner-take-all scenario. So, that format really does promote winning.”

Explaining his view of the new format, Johnson said, “It (The new format) really does ramp things up. Although it might be a little confusing for the casual fan, it has turned the wick up on things. It’s been naughty.”

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And now, around 6 years later, NASCAR drivers like Denny Hamlin and Dale Earnhardt Jr have revealed why they think that the current format isn’t the most efficient.

Denny Hamlin on why Round of 4 ‘Has to Go’

As per the current NASCAR Cup Series format, the series comprises 10 rounds. Moreover, the final round of 4 follows a winner-take-all format. However, many drivers believe that this might not be the best way to crown the champion.

After listening to NASCAR CEO Brian France on Dale Earnhardt Jr’s Dale Jr Download, Denny Hamlin thought of sharing his own views about the format. Replying to a fan’s tweet explaining why the Round of 4 has to go, Hamlin put forth a different playoff format.

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He wrote, “The round of 4 is great. I agree with @DaleJr that it should be a larger sample size, however. 3 races to crown a champ. 12 total races in playoffs. Every race is important, no one will clinch early. The last race is still the championship.”

What are your views on the round of 4? Let us know in the comments.