Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 2017 schedule

When does the 2017 NASCAR Monster Energy Cup Series season kickoff?

It won’t be long until NASCAR fans are hearing “Drivers, start your engines” in their sleep when the 2017 NASCAR Monster Energy Cup Series season fires up later in February.

This is the first year that the top NASCAR circuit is sponsored by Monster Energy. Nextel was the main sponsor from 2004-2007 until it switched to Sprint from 2008-2016. Sprint took over the naming rights after acquiring Nextel.

Another change to NASCAR this year is a series of modifications to the point system. This includes the introduction of stages within each race. These changes shouldn’t cause major confusion to the fans or take away from the sport itself.

The Monster Energy Cup Series drivers’ first action of the year comes on Saturday, Feb. 18 at Daytona International Speedway. It’s the first of three events for these drivers starting with the Advanced Auto Parts Clash. After that, the Can-Am Duels take place on Thursday before the most popular race of the season, the Daytona 500, officially kicks off the season on Sunday, Feb. 26.

These three events in a nine-day stretch test the drivers’ endurance and skills to the max. It will be a busy time for the drivers and crews alike. On the other hand, fans love this time of year as they get to see their favorite drivers compete as the season gets underway.

The NASCAR Monster Energy Cup Series season is very demanding as it lasts from February to November with not many weekends off in between. Buckle in, racing fans, there will be a lot of action in 2017. Jimmie Johnson’s title defense begins at the Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 26 on Fox.

Here’s the complete schedule:

REGULAR SEASON

CHASE FOR THE CHAMPIONSHIP

Round of 16

Round of 12

Round of 8

Championship Round