NASCAR is reviewing its rules on how often Cup Series drivers can compete in the sport’s lower-tier national divisions, a move that could reshape the balance between driver development and fan entertainment in the coming seasons.

For decades, Cup stars have occasionally “moonlighted” in the Xfinity Series or Craftsman Truck Series, whether to gain more track time, test new setups, or simply enjoy additional racing. The practice has long stirred debate: some see it as a valuable learning opportunity for younger drivers to measure themselves against the best, while others argue it undermines the development platforms and often results in one-sided races.

Currently, Cup Series drivers with more than three years of experience are limited to five Xfinity and five Truck starts per season. They are also barred from competing in those series’ regular-season finales and playoffs, a rule put in place in 2020 to prevent Cup drivers from directly impacting championship battles.

But with O’Reilly Auto Parts stepping in as the new title sponsor of NASCAR’s second-tier series in 2026, NASCAR leadership says changes could be on the horizon. President Steve O’Donnell confirmed that the sanctioning body is evaluating whether the current limits remain the best approach.

“We’re going to look at who is able to race in the series in the future as well and maybe make some changes down the road,” O’Donnell said. “You look at all of our series and we’ve had limits on, ‘Could a Cup driver compete?’ ‘How many races could they compete?’ So we’ve certainly had discussions with The CW and in the Truck Series as well (about), ‘Does that rule as it stands now make the most sense to continue as it is? Do we tweak it?’”

Any adjustment would represent another shift in NASCAR’s ongoing effort to balance competitive fairness with fan appeal. Some drivers and team owners believe Cup drivers’ participation elevates the quality of racing and brings additional attention to Xfinity and Truck events. Others counter that expanding Cup drivers’ involvement risks overshadowing rising talent.

NASCAR has not set a timeline for when potential changes could be announced, but O’Donnell indicated the offseason will include extensive discussions with teams, drivers, and broadcast partners.

Whether the rules remain in place or are loosened, the decision will likely shape how fans and competitors alike view the developmental role of NASCAR’s lower series in the years ahead.