NASCAR

NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) is an American motor-sports sanctioning body that governs stock car racing across a system of touring and regional series. It was founded in 1948 by Bill France Sr. and is headquartered in Daytona Beach, Florida. The organization sanctions three national divisions—the Cup Series, the Xfinity Series, and the Camping World Truck Series—and numerous regional and local touring series.

The Cup Series is NASCAR's premier level, attracting the sport's largest teams and most prestigious events. The annual schedule centers on oval tracks of varying lengths plus a handful of road courses, with the season culminating in a playoff-style format that crowns the champion. The Daytona 500, held at Daytona International Speedway, is widely regarded as NASCAR's flagship event.

Rules and competition: NASCAR uses a standardized set of technical and sporting rules to ensure parity across teams. Since 2017, races have included stage racing, with points awarded at the end of each stage and a postseason format that culminates in a Championship race. Vehicles must conform to "stock" car concepts while incorporating safety features and modern technology.

Safety and governance: NASCAR has promoted safety through devices such as the HANS device and SAFER barriers and through continuous chassis, cockpit, and restraint improvements. The governing body sets licensing, competition rules, track standards, and safety protocols, while teams and manufacturers compete for series championships and prestige.