NASCAR Betting In Michigan
In a state with such a connection to the automobile industry, NASCAR is obviously a big deal in Michigan. Now, with sports betting in full swing in Michigan, residents and visitors can bet on their favorite drivers. NASCAR wagering is available both through online sports betting and at retail sportsbooks throughout the Great Lakes State.
Michigan NASCAR fandom (and probably betting) reaches its peak during the summer. Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn hosts the FireKeepers Casino 400 in August.
Read on for how you can get into the action with NASCAR betting in Michigan.
Top sportsbooks for betting NASCAR
How to bet on NASCAR online in Michigan
You can bet on NASCAR easily online by following these five simple steps:
- Download a Michigan online and mobile sports betting app, or find a Michigan online and mobile sportsbook website online.
- Sign up for an account with a legal online sportsbook through the app or web page using your name, email address, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number.
- Find the promo code specific to that sportsbook on this website and enter it to make sure you get the best new-player bonus.
- Deposit into your account using a credit or debit card, cash at various retail locations, online bank transfer, or third-party payment processor.
- Browse through the NASCAR betting online markets and start placing bets.
The NASCAR Cup Series
NASCAR runs various auto racing series with different car and truck classes. Its NASCAR Cup Series is the top-tier circuit.
Normally, the NASCAR Cup Series — which started as the Grand National Series, became the Winston Cup Series in the 1970s, the Nextel Cup and Sprint Cup through the mid-2010s — includes 36 races over a 10-month season.
The top 16 drivers according to a points standings system compete for the championship over the final 10 races of the season. Four drivers are eliminated every three races, leaving only four drivers competing for the championship in the final race of the season.
In 2017, the series was named the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series and the final 10 races for the championship were called the Cup Championship Playoffs.
However, NASCAR has since dropped Monster Energy as the title sponsor.
The 2023 NASCAR Cup Series
Overview of the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series
The NASCAR Cup Series represents the pinnacle of American stock car racing, featuring the best drivers, teams, and manufacturers battling it out over a series of races to determine the ultimate champion. The 2024 season is expected to continue this tradition with a packed schedule of races across some of the most iconic and challenging tracks in the United States.
Key Highlights and Changes
- Schedule: The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series schedule is anticipated to include a mix of short tracks, road courses, superspeedways, and intermediate tracks, offering a diverse set of challenges to drivers and teams. Fans can look forward to returning favorites and possibly new venues to keep the competition fresh and exciting.
- Next Gen Car: Continuing with the Next Gen car introduced in 2022, the 2024 season will further refine and optimize the performance and safety of these vehicles. Expectations are high for more competitive racing as teams gain additional experience and data working with these cars.
- Driver Lineup: While specific details about the driver lineup for the 2024 season will be finalized closer to the start, the series will likely feature a blend of seasoned veterans, current stars, and emerging talents, all vying for supremacy in one of motorsport’s most prestigious championships.
- Technology and Innovation: NASCAR’s commitment to innovation will remain a key theme in 2024, with ongoing improvements in car technology, safety features, and race-day operations. Efforts to enhance the fan experience through digital platforms and interactive content will continue to be a priority.
- Sustainability Initiatives: NASCAR may further its sustainability efforts, building on initiatives like the use of biofuels and efforts to reduce the environmental impact of racing events. These initiatives demonstrate NASCAR’s commitment to being a leader in sustainable motorsport.
Races to Watch
While the complete schedule will be announced by NASCAR, key races that are traditionally part of the Cup Series and likely to remain highlight events in 2024 include:
- Daytona 500: The prestigious season opener at Daytona International Speedway, known for its high speeds and dramatic racing.
- Coca-Cola 600: NASCAR’s longest race, held at Charlotte Motor Speedway, tests endurance and strategy.
- Bristol Night Race: A fan-favorite event, the night race at Bristol Motor Speedway offers intense short-track racing under the lights.
- Southern 500: Part of the “Crown Jewel” races, the Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway is a throwback weekend celebrating NASCAR’s rich history.
Conclusion
The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series is shaping up to be a season not to be missed, with a blend of tradition and innovation that continues to make NASCAR one of the most popular and exciting motorsports in the world. Whether you’re a die-hard NASCAR fan, a casual observer, or someone interested in the cutting-edge of automotive technology and sports entertainment, the 2024 season will have something to offer. As the drivers start their engines and race towards the championship, the anticipation and excitement are just getting revved up.
The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs
Structure of the Playoffs
The NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs are expected to follow a format similar to recent years, with a series of races across different tracks that test drivers in various aspects of racing. The playoffs typically start with 16 drivers who qualify based on wins during the regular season and points standings. These drivers then compete in a series of rounds, with the field being narrowed down after each round, culminating in the Championship 4 race where the season’s champion is crowned.
Rounds
- Round of 16: The playoffs kick off with the Round of 16, where all qualified drivers compete in three races. The lowest-performing drivers in terms of points are eliminated at the end of this round.
- Round of 12: The competition intensifies in the Round of 12, with three more races determining who advances. The stakes are higher, and the margin for error becomes even slimmer.
- Round of 8: In this critical round, the remaining eight drivers battle it out over three races. Only the best make it through to the final round, with performance under pressure being key.
- Championship 4: The finale takes place at a predetermined track, where the final four drivers compete in a winner-takes-all race for the Cup Series Championship. There are no points calculations here; the highest finisher among the four contenders wins the championship.
Key Features of the Playoffs
- Diverse Tracks: The playoff races occur on a variety of tracks, including short tracks, road courses, and superspeedways, ensuring a comprehensive test of driving skill and team strategy.
- Points Reset: At the start of the playoffs and each subsequent round, points are reset to level the playing field, although drivers receive additional points for each win in the regular season and playoffs.
- Win and Advance: Winning a race during a playoff round automatically advances a driver to the next round, adding an aggressive strategy layer to each race.
- Championship Pressure: The playoffs amplify the pressure on drivers and teams, with every decision and performance having potential season-defining consequences.
Anticipated Highlights
- Emerging Rivalries: The playoffs often heighten rivalries as drivers compete head-to-head for the championship, leading to memorable moments and intense racing.
- Strategic Racing: Teams must employ strategic brilliance, balancing aggression with smart racing to advance through the rounds.
- Fan Engagement: NASCAR ramps up fan engagement during the playoffs with special events, promotions, and coverage, making it an exciting time for fans to follow the sport.
Conclusion
The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs are set to provide an electrifying conclusion to the racing season, encapsulating the spirit of competition that lies at the heart of NASCAR. As drivers and teams prepare for the ultimate test of their abilities, fans can look forward to a series of races filled with drama, triumph, and heartbreak, all leading up to the crowning of a champion. The playoffs are not just a test of speed but a showcase of resilience, strategy, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines NASCAR.
NASCAR’s biggest races
Michigan sportsbooks will allow you to bet on all NASCAR races, including the FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan.
However, there are certain NASCAR races that attract more attention, and therefore more betting action, than others.
This list includes the traditional NASCAR Grand Slam races:
- Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway
- GEICO 500 at Talladega Superspeedway
- Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway
- Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway
- Note: The entire NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs and NASCAR Cup Series Championship at Phoenix Raceway should also attract heavy action.
The NASCAR Cup Series Championship race will also be a significant day in NASCAR betting, because the majority of NASCAR futures bets will be settled.
NASCAR betting odds explained
NASCAR now offers more betting options than ever.
Here’s a detailed look at the types of bets you can make at Michigan sportsbooks on NASCAR Cup Series races and how NASCAR betting odds work.
- Outrights: Bet on a driver to win a certain race. Book the bet at currently posted moneyline odds. NASCAR outrights always offer positive odds because there are no odds-on favorites to win. The number indicates how much you stand to win for every $100 you bet.
- Pole position: Bet on who will post the fastest lap time in qualifying. Book the bet at currently posted moneyline odds.
- Driver matchups/groups: Bet on one driver against another or a group. Book the bet at currently posted moneyline odds. No need to pick winners here, just who will finish ahead in a head-to-head scenario.
- Podium/top-five finish: Bet on a driver to finish first, second, or third (podium), or in the top five. Payouts are smaller than outrights for obvious reasons.
- NASCAR futures: Bets surrounding the outcome of the entire NASCAR Cup Series season. Pick who you think will win the championship playoffs at odds that are adjusted for new bets throughout the season. Markets may also include points leader heading into the playoffs, drivers making the playoffs, and most wins in the season.
- Fastest lap time: A race-long prop bet on the driver you think will post the single-fastest lap in the race.
Other prop bets
In addition to fastest lap time, various other NASCAR race props include:
- Number of crashes
- Winning vehicle manufacturer
- Number of caution flags
- Number of cars finishing
- Driver leading the most laps
- Number of lead changes
How live betting works in NASCAR
The standard NASCAR betting options listed above are available through live or in-race wagering.
That means you can bet on NASCAR before or after the start of the race at odds that change with the action.
In fact, NASCAR and data partner BetGenius debuted a new live, in-race betting product for the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series season.
The product offers dozens of new bet types and dynamic betting opportunities for every lap on race day.
What are the best spots to bet on NASCAR in Michigan?
NASCAR races can be that much better when you head out to catch the action, and the chance to place some bets at the latest odds is a huge bonus. Here are some spots that you’ll want to check out.
Greektown Casino-Hotel / The Sportsbook at Greektown
- Name: Barstool Sportsbook at Greektown Casino-Hotel
- Address: 55 E Lafayette St, Detroit, MI 48226
- Phone: (313) 223-2999
- Sportsbook hours: M-F: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. S/S: 9 a.m. – Midnight
- Online sportsbook: Barstool Sportsbook
The Barstool Sportsbook is on the upper’s casino level. There are five betting windows and dozens of self-serve kiosks throughout the property, which also sports a robust food menu.
Turtle Creek Casino / Onyx Sportsbook by Caesars
- Name: Onyx Sportsbook by Caesars
- Address: 7741 M-72, Williamsburg, MI 49690
- Phone: (231) 534-8870
- Sportsbook hours: M-Th: Noon – 12 a.m. Fr/Sa: 10 a.m. – 2 a.m. Su: 10 a.m. – Midnight.
- Online sportsbook: Caesars Sportsbook
Onyx Sportsbook by Caesars has a number of different amenities for visitors to enjoy, including a full-service bar, complimentary games and an outdoor patio. When it’s time to place bets, there are betting windows and self-serve kiosks to take care of business.
Little River Casino Resort
- Name: River Rock Sportsbook & Grill
- Address: 2700 Orchard Hwy, Manistee, MI 49660
- Phone: (231) 398-3976
- Sportsbook hours: M-Th: 2 p.m. – Midnight. F/S/S: 10 a.m. – Midnight
- Bar hours: 7 days – 10 a.m. – 2 a.m.
- Online sportsbook: BetRivers Michigan
Betting windows inside of a sports bar? Yes, please! You can also get your wagers in on a dozen betting terminals that are open 24 hours. Once your bets are in, enjoy the full menu and plenty of screens to catch the racing action.
For other places to check out the races while getting in a little wagering action, check out the FanDuel Sportsbook at MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit, or the BetAmerica Sportsbook at Island Resort & Casino in Harris.
How does the NASCAR Cup Series work?
NASCAR Cup Series drivers accumulate wins and points for various other finishing positions throughout the first segment of races in a season.
The 16 drivers with the most wins make the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs.
Unless the points leader doesn’t have a win, that is. If that’s the case, the points leader and the 15 drivers with the most wins make the playoffs.
Plus, if there are less than 16 NASCAR Cup Series race winners, points leaders without wins claim any leftover playoff spots.
How do NASCAR drivers earn points?
NASCAR Cup Series races are split into stages, where drivers can earn points.
The first two stages make up a quarter of the laps each, while the third stage is the last half of a race. The exception here is the longer Coca-Cola 600, which is run in four stages.
Drivers earn points for being in the top 10 at the end of each of the first two stages, from 10 points for the leader down to a single point for 10th.
In the third and final stage of a race, drivers can earn 40 points for a win and 35 for second place. Points then drop by one until the 36th-40th place finishers earn just one.
How do the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs work?
The points are thrown out the window as the playoffs begin. The 16 qualifying drivers get 2,000 points to begin the playoffs, plus:
- One point for each previous stage won
- Five points for each previous race won
- 15 points for the leaderboard winner, dropping by one down to a single point for 10-16th
The first three races make up the Round of 16. Drivers accumulate points according to the regular series parameters through these races. The top 12 in the new standings move on. Three more races are held, and the top eight then advance. The top four after three more races advance to the final NASCAR Cup Series Championship race.
Drivers who miss the cut still continue to race for fifth place in the standings and beyond.
The championship race decides who owns the title of NASCAR Cup Series Champion and the order of the top four.
NASCAR betting tips
There’s no real secret to successful NASCAR betting. Like other sports, proper bankroll management and effective research leading to informed picks are key.
Use real-world data, bet with your head (not your heart), and try these NASCAR basic sports betting tips:
1. Start small and grow from there
There are a lot of ways you can bet on a NASCAR race, but that doesn’t mean you should break the bank betting every one for the maximum your first time out.
Instead, try just a limited number of small bets to gain some experience betting on NASCAR first. You can always branch out from there if and when you find success.
2. Do the research
Like all sports bets, you can turn NASCAR guesses into educated and informed bets by doing some research.
Find out which drivers perform best on which tracks and bet on history repeating itself, as it often does.
3. Spread it around
Spread your money around a little when you bet on NASCAR races. You’ll get decent odds on most driver outrights, so pick more than one. Most of the time, a series of bets on multiple drivers to win will still be profitable if one comes through, and you’ll be giving yourself a much greater chance of finding Victory Lane.
FAQ
Yes it is, NASCAR stands for the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing. It’s the top-tier organization for stock car racing in the US.
NASCAR races can last from two hours up to four hours and beyond. It really depends on the length of the race and the conditions at the track. NASCAR Cup Series races are generally 4oo to 500 laps, but they range from 350 to 600. How long it takes to get through those laps varies based on race day weather and other factors.
NASCAR calls Daytona Beach, Florida, home. It also hosts the first race of the season: the Daytona 500, held every February at the Daytona International Speedway.
NASCAR is in the second half of a 10-year television contract with Fox Sports and NBC Sports to air its races. You can find most NASCAR races on local Fox Sports and NBC Sports cable channels in Michigan.
Richard Petty won the Daytona 500 seven times throughout his career, the most in NASCAR history. Petty drove from 1958-92 and won the Daytona 500 in the 1960s, 1970s, and once in the 1980s. Petty’s 200 total NASCAR Cup Series wins is also the most all-time.