In an attempt to “spice up” the less popular of Nascar Cup’s two non-points exhibition races, the sanctioning body said that 2021’s edition of the Busch Clash will feature a special prize for the winner: A “Money in the Bank” Championship Title shot.
“We wanted to make the Clash meaningful for the first time, well, ever”, said Nascar executive Tony Michaels. “So when those lucky drivers hit the road course at Daytona in February, one of them will walk away with an instant shot at glory, courtesy the ‘Money in the Bank’ briefcase.”
Holding up said briefcase for various media members joining the press conference on Zoom, Michaels explained the rules in place for the victorious driver:
“The winner of the race gets possession of this handsome briefcase. They are then entitled to a championship ‘title shot’ at any point this season. This means that once the winning driver decides to ‘cash in’, they’ll be in a ten-lap shootout with the reigning champion, in this case Chase Elliott. If they manage to beat Chase in the race, they’ll retroactively be named the 2020 Nascar Cup champion, earning the trophy and all media responsibilities therein.”
Upon being asked how such a race would take place, Michaels elaborated, stating, “That’s the best part—it can happen anywhere there’s a track, a Nascar official to wave the flag, and Chase Elliott’s nearby. So it could be immediately following a race at Bristol, or during a Hooters commercial shoot at Charlotte. Heck—it could even be at Texas at 2:30am. You’ll never know when it will happen.”
When reached for comment, Elliott—who would seem to be at a major disadvantage with the new format—remained confident.
“I’m not worried—heck, I could even win the Clash itself, negating any threat”, Elliott said. “Besides, the championship can only change hands on a clean win. So if someone wants to challenge me, don’t be surprised if the ol’ number 9 car fails inspection afterwards for a disqualification.”
Nascar officials confirmed that the idea was “borrowed” from fellow NBC & Fox property WWE, and that they’re working on a plan for holding the All-Star race in 2022 in a steel cage.