Emotional NASCAR Cup Finale at Phoenix: Who Won and Lost?

This year’s NASCAR Cup Series finale at Phoenix delivered high drama, unexpected outcomes, and emotional moments for racers and fans alike. Kyle Larson emerged as a two-time champion, while Denny Hamlin faced yet another heartbreaking near-miss. Tire strategies and race dynamics shaped the final laps, leading to a remarkable conclusion to the 2025 season.

Key Takeaways from the Emotional NASCAR Cup Finale

• Winner: Kyle Larson captures his second championship.
• Loser: Denny Hamlin suffers a devastating setback.
• Notable Performers: Ryan Blaney and Cliff Daniels shine in critical moments.
• A Fast Track to Change: Fan reactions highlight concerns over the playoff format.

Kyle Larson: The Unexpected Champion

Kyle Larson clinched the NASCAR Cup Series title despite not leading any laps during the race. His last victory came in May, making this championship win particularly stunning. On the race’s final restart, Larson capitalized on opportunities, finishing third while quietly securing the championship. It was a moment of disbelief for Larson, who had been less prominent since earlier in the season.

Denny Hamlin’s Painful Loss

Denny Hamlin dominated much of the race from pole position, leading over 200 laps, but ultimately fell short. His decision to prioritize tire changes over track position during the final restart proved costly. Hamlin’s emotional reaction resonated with fans, marking yet another near-title experience in his lengthy career.

Ryan Blaney’s Triumphant Win

Ryan Blaney managed to steal the show with a last-lap win, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. Unlike past disappointments, he focused on this victory, his fourth checkered flag of the season. Though he missed advancing to the Championship 4, Blaney expressed satisfaction with his race performance.

A Caution That Changed Everything

William Byron’s unfortunate blown tire resulted in a late-race caution that altered the race’s dynamics. It not only hindered his performance but also had significant implications for Hamlin’s chances at the championship. Byron expressed regret after realizing his incident dramatically reshaped the race’s outcome.

Strategic Decisions and Crew Dynamics

Crew chief Cliff Daniels played a pivotal role in Larson’s success by executing a timely tire strategy during the critical high-pressure moments of the race. While other teams opted for four tires, Larson’s team specialized in right-side changes, a decision that proved advantageous as the race concluded.

Reflections on the Current Playoff Format

Fans expressed mixed feelings about the playoff format following such a tumultuous finale. While it generated exciting drama, many questioned its fairness. Larson’s unique championship win, without leading a lap, highlighted the discrepancies between performance throughout the season and the playoff’s final outcomes.

Notable Performances Beyond the Cup Series

• Corey Heim: Dominated the Truck Series, showcasing impressive racing skills.
• Connor Zilisch: Experienced heartbreak despite a strong season in the Xfinity Series.

The finale at Phoenix reflected the intense emotions and unpredictability that define NASCAR. As the sport prepares to enter a new season, many anticipate changes that may address the concerns raised during this unforgettable championship weekend.