Again, NASCAR postpones race

Major changes to NASCAR�s Nextel Cup playoff chase are expected due to a few days of rain in Michigan this week.

The 3M Performance 400, which was originally slated to be run last Sunday, was canceled for the second consecutive day. Although there remains a chance of rain, the event was rescheduled for 10 a.m. today at the Michigan International Speedway.

According to NASCAR spokesman Ramsey Poston, the race could be held as late as tomorrow before the series would be moved to its next event. Teams for the Sharpie 500, which is scheduled this Saturday night, are expected to arrive on Thursday at Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee.

NASCAR has never held a race on a Tuesday or a Wednesday in the modern times, a practice that started in 1972.

Poston said should the race be not completed tomorrow, the season would be extended for a week. The event would be held late in November, the weekend after Thanksgiving. This plan would change NASCAR�s carefully planned 10-race playoff timetable.

According to NASCAR rules, the 12-car field for the Chase for the Nextel Cup is to be set after the 26th race of the season. As of now, the 26th race is the Chevy Rock & Roll 400 at Richmond, Va., on September 8.

The rain delay has created a logistical problem for NASCAR organizers. It has become costly for NASCAR and its race teams, which are forced to pay for added hotel rooms, rental cars, and meals.