
The NASCAR Cup Series All-Star Race took place on Sunday. It was on Sunday afternoon, starting at 1 p.m. E.T., in Dover.
But did it feel like an All-Star Race?
If you ask the NASCAR Cup Series drivers: not really. The NASCAR Cup Series drivers did not appear to enjoy their time during the All-Star Race. In fact, some of them seemed pretty miserable following the race.
Does something need to change moving forward?
Longtime NASCAR driver Chase Briscoe said that it did not "remotely" feel like an All-Star Race on Sunday afternoon.
Chase Briscoe says this did not remotely feel like an All Star Race pic.twitter.com/XSuKIR4TVf
— Matt Weaver (@MattWeaverRA) May 17, 2026
Chase Elliott, meanwhile, added that it felt more like an October series race, rather than a big-time All-Star Weekend.
"It feels totally like a normal points race," he said.
Chase Elliott on the All-Star format/venue and how the data from this extended practice can help Hendrick Motorsports. pic.twitter.com/BG2lHim9Bd
— Above The Yellow Line Media (@ATYLmedia) May 15, 2026
While NASCAR's Cup Series drivers didn't seem to enjoy the All-Star Weekend, repeatedly claiming it didn't feel like the biggest of stages, the sport's fan base seemed to have a good time.
NASCAR fans packed the stands and expressed their excitement over the race.
"Fans I talked to are excited to be here, and sure, this isnt Dover from our childhood but I'm grading on a scale Hope they get a good show and we can pick up whatever is next for this event and the track," Matt Weaver shared on X.
Say what you will about a Dover All Star Race but this place is packed and electric pic.twitter.com/AnAe58qoGx
— Matt Weaver (@MattWeaverRA) May 17, 2026
It'll be interesting to see how NASCAR handles things moving forward, though, regarding the All-Star Race.
There's been a lot of talk about what to do with the All-Star Race and how to make it the most exciting and most entertaining for everyone involved.
This weekend could be the spark for more change.
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