The "NASCAR Sprint Cup Series" is the sport's highest level of professional competition. It is consequently the most popular and most profitable NASCAR series. Writers and fans often use "Cup" to refer to the Sprint Cup series and the ambiguous use of "NASCAR" as a synonym for the Sprint Cup series is common.

For the 2010 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, Mobil 1 and Penske Racing will be returning to the NASCAR track with the No. 77 Mobil 1 car piloted again by Sam Hornish Jr. As the Official Motor Oil of NASCAR, Mobil 1 will also be featured on over half of the cars competing weekly for the opportunity to participate in the Chase for the Championship. 2010 will be Sam Hornish's third fulltime year competing in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.