More points for NASCAR winners

NASCAR officials are seriously considering at least two proposals to change the format for the Chase for the Nextel Cup next season.

Increasing the number of points awarded to race winners and increasing the number of participants in the Chase are both under “serious consideration" at this time, NASCAR vice president Jim Hunter said Saturday at Richmond International Raceway.

NASCAR still could consider other options and no final decision is likely until the end of the season, Hunter said.