2004 Chase for the Nextel Cup
The 2004 Chase for the Nextel Cup served as the premiere ten-race playoff series among the top ten drivers in the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series. After the Chevy Rock and Roll 400 on September 11, 2004, the ten drivers atop the standings were locked into the playoff. Kurt Busch won the driver's championship for the first time in his career.Participants
- Jeff Gordon — Hendrick Motorsports No. 24 5050
- Jimmie Johnson — Hendrick Motorsports No. 48 -5
- Dale Earnhardt, Jr. — Dale Earnhardt, Inc. No. 8 -10
- Tony Stewart — Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 -15
- Matt Kenseth — Roush Racing No. 17 -20
- Elliott Sadler — Robert Yates Racing No. 38 -25
- Kurt Busch — Roush Racing No. 97 -30
- Mark Martin — Roush Racing No. 6 -35
- Jeremy Mayfield — Evernham Motorsports No. 19 -40
- Ryan Newman — Penske Racing No. 12 -45
Final standings
- Kurt Busch – 6506
- Jimmie Johnson – 6498
- Jeff Gordon – 6490
- Mark Martin – 6399
- Dale Earnhardt Jr. – 6368
- Tony Stewart – 6326
- Ryan Newman – 6180
- Matt Kenseth – 6069
- Elliott Sadler – 6024
- Jeremy Mayfield – 6000