AT A GLANCE | Chase for the Champion

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- NASCAR implemented a new system for crowning its Nextel Cup series champion after abandoning the traditional points system used since 1975. The 10-race playoff system begins Sunday at New Hampshire. How the champion will be decided:
What is it: A 10-race shootout, called "NASCAR's Chase for the Nextel Cup Champion" that covers the final 10 events of the 36-race schedule.
Who's eligible: All 43 teams raced as usual over the first 26 events of the year. The top 10 in the standings after last Saturday's race at Richmond, and anyone else within 400 points of the leader, were eligible.
What's at stake: Aside from the Nextel Cup title, each driver in the top 10 will be paid a minimum of $1 million from the points fund. The champion will get at least $5 million.
What's left: The remaining 33 drivers in the field still have something to race for -- 11th place. NASCAR has guaranteed a $1 million payout to the 11th driver as incentive for the rest of the field. That driver will also be invited to the season-ending awards ceremony in New York, which has traditionally included only the top 10 drivers.
Associated Press