Kyle Larson Outshines Denny Hamlin to Clinch Second NASCAR Cup Championship

Kyle Larson achieved a remarkable feat by clinching his second NASCAR Cup Series championship at Phoenix Raceway. He finished third during an overtime restart, edging past Denny Hamlin, who faced yet another heartbreak in his quest for a first championship.

Kyle Larson’s Championship Victory

Larson’s victory marks a significant milestone in his career, making him the 18th driver in NASCAR history to secure multiple Cup titles. His previous championship was in 2021, and this win comes in the current elimination playoffs format, a system introduced in 2014. Larson’s achievement stands out as he became the first champion to win without leading a single lap in the season finale.

Denny Hamlin’s Title Challenge

Denny Hamlin had a dominant performance, leading a race-high 208 laps. However, his attempts to capture the championship were thwarted when a late caution disrupted his strong run. He finished sixth, just shy of his goal after participating in his fifth Championship 4 race. Hamlin expressed disappointment, stating, “If you can’t win that one, I don’t know which one you can win.”

Race Highlights

• Larson’s journey to the championship included falling two laps down due to a flat tire.
• He used a wavearound strategy to return to the lead lap and executed a crucial two-tire call by his crew chief, Cliff Daniels.
• Ryan Blaney won the race by a narrow margin of 0.097 seconds over Brad Keselowski.

Statistics and Key Moments

Throughout the race, Larson demonstrated remarkable adaptability, returning to prominence after overcoming significant setbacks. Notably, he had been on a 24-race winless streak, with his last victory at Kansas Speedway in May.

• Race stats:
• Lap leader: Denny Hamlin (208 laps)
• Championship 4 final placements:
  • Kyle Larson – 3rd
  • Denny Hamlin – 6th
  • Chase Briscoe – 18th
  • William Byron – 33rd

The Road Ahead

The next chapter in NASCAR will begin with the 68th running of the Daytona 500 on February 15, 2026, as teams prepare for another exciting season.

For Larson, this championship exemplifies the persistence and strategic gameplay that have defined his career. Fans and fellow competitors alike await what he will achieve next in his NASCAR journey.