This weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series race at New Hampshire, Mobil 1 301, isn’t just another playoff event. It comes with serious cash on the line. The total prize pool for the 2025 Mobil 1 301 is $9,797,935. That’s for the Cup Series alone and includes payouts for all finishing positions, charter team payouts, historical performance bonuses, contingency awards, and contributions to the year‐end points fund.
What about the winner’s cut? According to NASCAR journalist Bob Pockrass, the driver who wins Mobil 1 301 will likely pick up 8-10% of the purse. Doing the math, that works out to somewhere between $783,835 and $979,794 for the champion. This kind of payout underscores how high the stakes are not just for the points and playoff advancement, but also for financial reward.
Why the Prize Pool Matters
This isn’t just about bragging rights and finishing first. In the NASCAR playoffs, every bit of payout helps teams offset the costs of travel, equipment, personnel, and the high stress of running at peak performance. That nearly $1 million prize for the winner is substantial, especially for smaller teams or those who depend heavily on prize winnings and sponsorships.
For charter teams, especially, those earnings are also tied to contract obligations, sponsor expectations, and seasonal budgets. A big payout can influence decisions on investments, upgrades, and even internal morale. When a team sees large prize money heading their way, it tends to boost confidence and sometimes push riskier strategy calls.
What’s Changed & How this Stacks Up
Compared to last year’s Mobil 1 301 (and previous races at Loudon), the increase in the purse is noticeable. The 2025 total of $9,797,935 reflects growth from past years–meaning NASCAR’s payout structure, media rights, sponsorship, and contingency awards are scaling up.
Also, the winner’s share, approaching the high-end of that 8-10 percent bracket, is impressive. In many races, winners might take smaller percentages, especially when bonus payouts or additional awards get factored in, so getting somewhere around $900K is a very healthy check.
Sweet Spot Between Risk & Reward
Knowing that such big prize money is in play adds another layer to the strategy. For drivers who haven’t locked in their position in the Round of 8, pushing hard for the win is more tempting. But going all‐in on risk can backfire–wrecks, tire wear, losing time in the pits, or penalties could turn that payout into a bust.
Then there’s the consideration of consistency. Sometimes coming in 2nd or 3rd might yield a smaller check, but fewer risks than going all out for 1st. Teams might adjust their setups, tires, or fuel strategies accounting not just for speed, but for survival and reliability.
Who’s in Position to Cash In