The results of a change in the points system seem to favor certain drivers over others, leading to history repeating itself. This can be supported by the results of the last two significant points system changes within NASCAR’s premier series in 1975 and 2004.
We have all heard the story of the NASCAR pioneers who created the “classic” points system on the back of a paper bag, adding needed structure to what was to become a powerhouse sport. This change was implemented in 1975, a year which is sometimes referred to as the start of the Modern Era of NASCAR.
A fiery driver named Cale Yarborough had been associated with NASCAR for a few years prior to the points change, but figured out quickly that he was capable of points racing. The first year under the new points system, Cale landed ninth in the standings behind eventual champion Richard Petty.
Cale was one of four drivers to finish within the top 10 in points that year who didn’t start all 30 races that made up the season. The following year, Cale managed to start all 30 races on the schedule, and walked away with his first Cup Championship. He followed up with two more Championships in the following two years.
Cale remains the only driver to ever achieve three Cup Championships in consecutive years. However, those three were the only three he ever won. Over a 16 year career in NASCAR, Cale Yarbrough started 303 races, garnering three Cups, 55 wins, and 159 top fives.
Within five years of introducing a new points system in 1975, one driver managed to win three championships in a row.
After nearly three decades of success in racing, NASCAR chose in 2004 to introduce yet another new points system.
Like Yarborough, Jimmie Johnson raced in NASCAR for a few years preceding the most recent points change, and following its introduction, he found similar success.
2004 was the first year of the new points system, affectionately referred to as “The Chase,” Jimmie Johnson missed winning his first Championship by just eight points, finishing second behind Kurt Busch. 2005 also eluded Jimmie, as he finished fifth behind eventual Champion Tony Stewart.
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