NASCAR scraps "Promoter's Caution" for Dover All-Star race - ESPN
ESPN
February 25, 2026
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NASCAR has made significant changes to the format of this season's All-Star race at Dover Motor Speedway, scrapping the controversial "Promoter's Caution" and introducing a new three-segment, 350-lap competition. The event, set for May 17, marks the first time in its 42-year history that it will be held in the Northeast, with NASCAR moving the race from North Wilkesboro, North Carolina, to allow that track to host a Cup Series race. The new format includes two qualifying segments before the final race, with the top finishers from each segment influencing the starting lineup for the 200-lap finale. This year's All-Star race will feature a $1 million prize, but no points are at stake.
The first segment of the race will determine the top 26 finishers, who will then have their starting order inverted for the second segment. The combined finishing positions from both segments will set the lineup for the final race, with automatic qualifying spots also available for race winners and previous champions. Fan voting will decide the final spot in the 26-car field. This new structure replaces last year's "Promoter's Caution," which allowed track officials to call a random yellow flag, often leading to criticism over its impact on race outcomes. The elimination of this element is expected to provide greater clarity and fairness for drivers and fans.
The decision to hold the All-Star race at Dover also adds significance
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Originally published on ESPN on 2/25/2026