NASCAR changes Sprint Unlimited eligibility; Danica Patrick allowed in

Often perception is reality. That notion certainly seems applicable when assessing NASCAR’s decision to expand the field of the Sprint Unlimited, the traditional season-opening race held at Daytona International Speedway.

In Monday’s announcement, NASCAR stated all 16 drivers who qualified for the Chase for the Sprint Cup will compete in the non-points event. Additionally, pole-sitters from the 2014 season and former Sprint Unlimited winners are eligible to race.

However, the wrinkle creating the perception, whether intended or not, that NASCAR is changing the rules just to ensure certain individuals can participate is all former Daytona 500 pole-sitters are also allowed to run in the Sprint Unlimited. As the adjusted criteria hands Danica Patrick a position in the now expanded field.

Otherwise ineligible, Patrick will be included by virtue of having taken the pole for the 2013 Daytona 500, as will 2009 pole-sitter Martin Truex Jr. While Truex may not be enough to capture the attention of the casual fan, the same cannot be said of Patrick, one of the sport’s most popular and recognizable figures.

Overall, the 2015 Sprint Unlimited will feature 25 drivers in the 75-lap race. Brian Vickers, the pole-winner for the October race at Talladega, is eligible but will not participate due to medical reasons. His spot will likely be filled by Michael Waltrip Racing teammate Clint Bowyer.

The Sprint Unlimited is Feb. 14 and will be broadcast on Fox.

Eligible drivers: