Larson NASCAR Champion: Snapped the Title from Hamlin in Epic Final

Kyle Larson became the two-time NASCAR champion, snatching the title from Denny Hamlin in a final full of drama at the Phoenix Raceway.

An Unexpected Turn

Hamlin, who was leading the race and seemed headed for his first championship, saw his hopes vanish due to a late yellow flag. The incident, caused by a puncture from William Byron, changed the course of the competition with only three laps to go.

Simply incredible. I can’t believe it.

Kyle Larson

The yellow flag forced Hamlin to pit for a tire change, while Larson opted for only two. This positioned Larson in fifth place for the restart, while Hamlin fell to tenth position.

With so little time, Hamlin couldn’t regain positions and 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.

I don’t really have much emotion right now. Just numb from the shock.

Denny Hamlin

This is the second time Larson has been crowned champion, following his victory in 2021. Hamlin, visibly affected, remained motionless in his car for several seconds before wiping his face with a white towel. Larson, for his part, expressed his surprise at winning the championship without leading any laps. The Joe Gibbs Racing team experienced a moment of disbelief and disappointment. For Hamlin, this is the sixth time the title has eluded him in his 20-year career.

Hamlin, who dominated the race, regretted not being able to secure the victory. Chase Briscoe, Hamlin’s teammate, finished in 18th place. Byron, for his part, was sorry to ruin Hamlin’s chances.