Ladies and gents, one of my favorite sports has (technically) returned! NASCAR, love it or hate it, is indeed back and a couple of changes will make the face of the sport look different this year.

First things first, Denny Hamlin kicked off the preseason festivities by taking home the checkered at the Sprint Unlimited race on Saturday night.

Secondly, Chase Elliott is now the driver of the #24 car, which was, of course, Jeff Gordon's up until his retirement last year. In fact, Elliott, who's just 20 years old, will be the pole sitter for Sunday's big race. Matt Kenseth will start second.

The two duels that take place the Thursday before the 500 also have a new name. Can-Am now sponsors both duels, as the first Can-Am Duel will take place at 6:00pm CT and the second at 8:00pm CT. Both will be on Fox Sports 1.

More From KFMX FM