Larson Beats Hamlin: Second NASCAR Title in Dramatic Finale!

Kyle Larson Crowned NASCAR Champion in a Dramatic Final

AVONDALE, Ariz. – Kyle Larson clinched his second NASCAR championship in a race full of unexpected twists at Phoenix Raceway. The victory came after a final that was decided in overtime, leaving Denny Hamlin heartbroken, who seemed to have the victory secured. Larson, aware that he couldn’t catch Hamlin in the final laps without a yellow flag, received the help he needed. However, for Hamlin, the yellow flag represented tragedy. The race was about to end when a puncture in William Byron’s car caused the yellow flag to come out, changing the course of the competition. Hamlin, who was leading at that moment, was forced to pit to change tires, while Larson opted for only two. This positioned Larson in fifth place and Hamlin in tenth for the restart.

Kyle Larson celebra con sus hijos tras ganar el campeonato de la NASCAR Cup Series 2025. — Kyle Larson celebra con sus hijos tras clinchar el campeonato de la NASCAR Cup Series 2025. Es el segundo campeonato de Larson, quien ganó su primer título en 2021 cuando se unió a Hendrick Motorsports.

With so little time to recover, Hamlin finished sixth, while Larson secured third place, enough to win the championship. Ryan Blaney, who was not in contention for the title, won the race.

“Simply incredible. I can’t believe it,” Larson declared.
Kyle Larson

Hamlin, visibly affected, expressed his disbelief and frustration after the race. “This sport can drive you crazy because sometimes speed, talent, none of that matters,” said Hamlin, who led 208 of the 319 laps and started from the pole position.

Denny Hamlin en su coche después de la carrera. — Es el sexto intento de un campeonato de NASCAR que se le escapa a Denny Hamlin en sus 20 años conduciendo para Joe Gibbs Racing. Lideró 208 de las 319 vueltas y partió desde la pole.

Hamlin’s decision to put on four new tires was the right one, but the strategy of other drivers prevented him from closing the gap with Larson. This championship marks the second title for Larson, who won his first in 2021. Hamlin’s teammate, Chase Briscoe, finished in 18th place, while Byron, Larson’s teammate, finished in 33rd place after his late issue. Byron regretted having hurt Hamlin’s chances.

“I’m very disappointed that it was a yellow flag. I feel bad for Denny. I feel bad for the 11 team,” Byron said.
William Byron

Larson, for his part, broke a winless streak since the beginning of May, which extended to 24 consecutive races. The victory in the championship represents an important milestone for Larson and his team.