Qualifying Changes Are Set
Starting with its sixth Nextel Cup race this season, NASCAR will change its rule regarding provisional qualifiers.
The first 35 drivers in the 2005 standings will be guaranteed a spot in each race. The next seven positions in the 43-car fields will go to drivers with the fastest qualifying speeds who are not among the top 35 in points.
The final spot is reserved for a current or previous Cup champion.
Through the first five races, the top 35 in last year’s standings will be guaranteed spots.
The old system allowed teams to accrue provisionals throughout the season, which they used if their drivers did not qualify in the top 35 in speed.
When a team ran out of provisionals, the nonqualified driver did not make the race, no matter where he stood in points.
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