NASCAR has announced a new rule for the 2025 season that will award one point to the team and driver with the fastest single lap in each race across all three of its national series. The “Xfinity Fastest Lap” rule is part of a contract renewal between NASCAR and Xfinity, which extends Xfinity’s role as the entitlement sponsor of the second-tier series through 2025 and includes a multiyear agreement for Xfinity to continue as a premium partner of the Cup Series.
The introduction of the “Xfinity Fastest Lap” rule marks a significant change in the way points are awarded in NASCAR races. Previously, points were awarded based on a driver’s finishing position and stage wins. The new rule adds an additional layer of competition, incentivizing drivers to push for the fastest lap throughout the race, even if they are not in contention for the win.
Matt Lederer, Comcast’s vice president of brand partnership and engagement, expressed enthusiasm for the new rule and the renewed partnership between NASCAR and Xfinity. “We’re not just entering Year 11 of our partnership. We’re embarking on Year 1 of a renewed relationship with NASCAR filled with fresh energy and exciting opportunities to enhance the competition on the track in a way that has never been done before,” Lederer said.
The concept of awarding points for the fastest lap is not new in motorsports. IndyCar currently employs a similar rule, while Formula 1 abolished its fast-lap rule ahead of the current season. The introduction of the “Xfinity Fastest Lap” in NASCAR is expected to add an extra level of excitement and strategy to races, as teams and drivers balance the pursuit of the fastest lap with their overall race strategy.
The new rule will be in effect for all three of NASCAR’s national series – the Cup Series, Xfinity Series, and Craftsman Truck Series – starting with the 2025 season. This means that drivers in each series will have the opportunity to earn an additional point for their team and themselves by setting the fastest lap in each race.
