Sprint Cup Series
Quick Summary
The Sprint Cup Series, now known as the NASCAR Cup Series, is the premier stock-car racing championship in North America, sanctioned by NASCAR. Founded in 1947, NASCAR evolved from earlier racing series, with Bill France Sr. playing a key role in its establishment and the development of its scoring system to determine a national champion.12
The series, originally called the Strictly Stock races in 1949, was renamed Grand National in 1950. In 1971, it became the Winston Cup Series, and later the Nextel Cup Series, before adopting its current name, the Sprint Cup Series, in 2008. The championship is determined by a points system awarded in each race.13
Notable drivers who have achieved multiple championships include Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt, and Jimmie Johnson, each with seven titles. Jeff Gordon has won four championships, and several others have won three. The sport has seen significant developments in safety, car technology, and expansion beyond its traditional southeastern base.31
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