NASCAR's Drivers' Advisory Council will look different this year, with a new key figure.
Long-time NASCAR exec and former Daytona International Speedway president Chip Wile is in as executive director, replacing Cup Series great Jeff Burton in the role.
Burton will remain with the council as an advisor, with the move described in a press release as 'part of a broader effort to enhance alignment between drivers, NASCAR governance, and racing teams during a major rules cycle'.
That rules cycle includes a horsepower increase on short tracks for the coming season, with more tracks also designated 'short'.
NASCAR drivers' council sees new faces
The press release read: “Driving the renewed focus are initiatives intended to ensure open communication between racing’s on-track talent and the sanctioning body.
"These efforts carry added importance amid ongoing legal and regulatory developments, including the recently resurfaced lawsuit involving several charter holders. During these disputes, the council played a crucial role in advocating for cooperation and transparency.”
The council now includes current stars of the sport and a couple of legends who no longer race, with Bob Pockrass reporting that William Byron, Chase Briscoe, Joey Logano, Michael McDowell, Kurt Busch, Kyle Petty, and ex-Growth Energy CEO Tom Buis all on the list.
The sport continues to wait for the announcement of a new championship system for the 2026 season, with the current 3-3-3-1 playoff system being ditched.
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