News - Josh Berry Praises Return to NASCAR's Chase Format, Supports Call for Respect

Renowned NASCAR racer Ryan Blaney, who recently claimed the NASCAR Cup Championship, has expressed concerns about the prevalent playoff system's negative impact on respect among drivers. Blaney, known for his advocacy for sportsmanship, has highlighted how the current framework pushes competitors to make drastic moves for postseason qualification, which often strains mutual respect. In alignment with Blaney's views, Josh Berry, who succeeds Blaney at Wood Brothers Racing, has publicly endorsed the call for the Chase format's reintroduction. This format, according to Blaney and Berry, could rejuvenate respect on the tracks by emphasizing consistency alongside victories. During a press briefing following a Cup Series test at North Wilkesboro Speedway, Berry elaborated on his observations, drawing parallels with Blaney's insights. He remarked that while victories carry immense significance, the Chase format might adjust racing strategies and perceptions, particularly in high-risk superspeedway events. Berry stressed the distinction between the approach of competitors needing wins versus those aiming for points accumulation on challenging tracks like Daytona or Talladega, proposing that the revised format seeks to reward both steady performances and triumphs, potentially altering race strategies. Although the complete impact of these adjustments remains speculative, the foundational structure of the system urges drivers to minimize poor results, crucial for advancing into the playoff rounds spanning the season's final stretch. The prospect of the revised format may also redefine how frontrunners handle hazardous situations. The incentivization of securing points rather than pursuing risky maneuvers might take precedence, underscoring strategic positioning over reckless gambits.