The All-Star Race is a unique event that showcases the best drivers in a thrilling competition. Here’s a breakdown of the format to help you understand what to expect.
Race Structure:
- The All-Star Race typically consists of multiple segments, each designed to test the skills of the drivers.
- Points are awarded based on finishing positions in each segment, with the final segment determining the overall winner.
Eligibility:
- Drivers must meet specific criteria to qualify for the All-Star Race, often including previous race wins or performance in the current season.
Fan Participation:
- Fans have a chance to influence the race through voting, which can determine starting positions or special challenges.
As you prepare for your visit to Charlotte Motor Speedway, keep these details in mind to enhance your race-day experience. For more information on planning your race week, tailgating, and events, explore our comprehensive guides.
Why the Format Keeps Changing and How to Follow It
The All-Star Race is NASCAR's best-known exhibition: it awards no championship points, so the sanctioning body uses it as a test bed. Segment lengths, inversions, pit-stop rules, tyre allocations and even the number of laps have changed from one edition to the next. Some ideas tried here, such as stage-style racing and new restart procedures, later influenced points-paying races. The format you remember from a past year may not be the one used next time, so read the official rules release before race weekend.
The Open and the Fan Vote
Drivers who don't qualify automatically usually get a second route in through a shorter companion race, traditionally called the All-Star Open, held the same day. Segment or race winners in the Open typically advance, and the fan vote then adds one more driver. Voting normally runs online in the days before the event, and the result is announced at the track, which makes it a popular moment for fans in the stands.
A Note on Venue
For most of its history the race was held at Charlotte Motor Speedway, and race week in Concord grew up around it. In recent years NASCAR has moved it to other tracks, including North Wilkesboro Speedway in North Carolina. Check the current schedule before you plan travel. Concord stays a busy hub in late May either way, thanks to the long-running Memorial Day weekend race at the speedway and the many team shops in the area.
Making Sense of It on Race Day
- Bring a scanner or use the official app to follow segment results and pit strategy as they happen.
- Watch the final segment closely: with no points at stake, drivers take risks they would avoid in a regular race.
- Arrive early for the Open, which often gives the closest racing of the night.
For seating and getting around, see our visit planning guide and our tickets advice.