Are the NASCAR Nextel Cup and the Sprint Cup the same thing?

Answer by  TheBean (7)

The Sprint Cup Series is the new name for the NASCAR Nextel Cup. In 2008, the two companies merged, and rather than keeping the old name, the company decided to change the name from Nextel to Sprint. Technically, they are the same trophy, but possess different names following the merger.

Answer by  paulp74115 (129)

Yes, they are. The Nextel Cup was renamed the Sprint Cup in 2008, as a result of the 2005 merger between Sprint and Nextel. Before Nextel came along, this cup was known as the Winston Cup, but RJR Reynolds gave up its sponsorship rights as a result of the multistate tobacco settlement.

Answer by  Supersadie (363)

Yes - the Sprint Cup is a series within Nascar racing. The Sprint Cup is sponsored by Nextel and is now known as the Nextel Cup.

Answer by  somethingcute (15)

Yes, they are different names for the top series, currently the Sprint Cup Series. Prior to 2007, it was the Nextel Cup Series. Sprint took over as sponsor after 2006.