NASCAR and Charlotte Motor Speedway released the format for the Monster Energy All Star Race this May. It's the first time the new winning strategy is being used in Charlotte.
Here's the race format:
- The race will feature four stages (20 laps, 20 laps, 20 laps, 10 laps), totaling 70 laps, an ode to the 1992 edition of the same distance.
- The goal for all competitors: Earn a spot in the final 10-lap, 10-car stage.
- The winner of each of the first three stages will lock up a spot in the final stage, as long as they remain on the lead lap after the third stage.
- The cars with the best average finish in the first three stages will make up the remaining spots needed to fill the 10-car final stage.
- The remaining 10 cars will be lined up by average finish of the first three stages and given the option to pit. Exit off pit road determines starting order for final stage.
- The winner will be awarded $1,000,000.
NASCAR also said a unique opportunity will be granted to each team. "Each team will have one set of these tires available to use at their discretion. A softer tire provides the car with more grip and, thus, speed. In other words, it's a game-changer.
"But there's a catch: Teams that choose to put on their softer tires to start the final stage must start behind those that choose regular tires."
Qualifying will return Friday night before the main race and will include the "no speed limit" four-tire pit stop. The five quickest teams will advance to the final round of qualifying to determine starting position one thorugh five.
On Saturday night, the Monster Energy Open occurs with three stages (20 laps, 20 laps, 10 laps) and the winner of each stage will earn a spot at the All-Star Race.
Drivers who have already earned a spot at the All-Star Race include: Chris Buescher, Kurt Busch, Kyle Busch, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Denny Hamlin, Kevin Harvick, Jimmie Johnson, Kasey Kahne, Matt Kenseth, Brad Keselowski, Kyle Larson, Joey Logano, Jamie McMurray, Ryan Newman and Martin Truex Jr.