NASCAR is set to introduce a fresh twist to its points system in 2025 by incorporating a fastest lap bonus, reminiscent of Formula 1’s former approach. While the championship structure remains unchanged, this addition aims to inject extra strategy and competition into race weekends.
As part of its renewed partnership with Comcast, NASCAR will roll out the ‘Xfinity Fastest Lap’ bonus point. This incentive will be awarded to the driver and team that records the fastest lap during any points-paying race. The rule applies across all three national series and could play a decisive role in playoff scenarios, where a single point can determine advancement or elimination. Additionally, superspeedway events may witness new tactical approaches, as drivers leverage drafting opportunities to secure the fastest lap.
Unlike Formula 1’s system, which only awarded the fastest lap point to drivers already in the top 10, NASCAR’s version allows any championship-eligible driver to claim it. If multiple drivers achieve the same fastest lap time, the point will be given to the one who finishes in the higher position. However, Championship 4 contenders will not be eligible for this bonus during the title-deciding race, aligning with the existing rule that excludes them from stage points.
The introduction of this rule could lead to intriguing strategic maneuvers, particularly in the postseason. Formula 1 previously experienced controversy when drivers made late pit stops solely to deny rivals the fastest lap point—something that could become a factor in NASCAR as well, especially among teammates and manufacturer affiliates.
Had this rule been in place last season, Kyle Larson, who secured the fastest lap in five races—more than any other driver—might have clinched the regular-season championship. Even securing two additional points from those races would have changed the outcome, as he ultimately lost the title to Tyler Reddick by a single point.
