Top NASCAR Storylines of 2023: Many racing organizations tend to emphasize their season-long championship as the pinnacle story of the year. They argue that the season’s champion, like Max Verstappen in Formula 1, embodies the year’s defining achievement. But when it comes to NASCAR’s ’23 Cup Series champion, the narrative takes a more complex turn.
Taking a Deeper Dive…
10. Kyle Busch’s Rollercoaster Journey
The Richard Childress/Kyle Busch duo promised excitement, bridging past rivalries. Busch, with two Cups under Joe Gibbs Racing, and Childress, boasting six with Dale Earnhardt, offered the potential for both heaven and hell. Reality? A bit of both.
Busch stormed early with Fontana, Talladega, and St. Louis wins, securing a Playoff spot. However, setbacks at Fort Worth and Talladega torpedoed his progress, despite glimmers of hope with third-place finishes. A mixed bag from a strong start.
9. Trackhouse Racing’s Surprising Ascendancy
Trackhouse Racing’s rise, led by Justin Marks, showcased Ross Chastain and Daniel Suarez. Winning thrice in 2022, the team outperformed well-funded rivals. Chastain’s Playoff qualification and Phoenix victory added to the story, while Suarez struggled post his Sonoma breakthrough.
An unexpected win by Shane Van Gisbergen in Chicago marked Trackhouse’s solid season: three victories, 14 top-5s, and 25 top-10s in their third Cup season. A tale of highs and lows for Chastain and Suarez.
8. Bubba Wallace’s Milestone
In ’23, Bubba Wallace exceeded Wendell Scott’s top-10 achievement in NASCAR’s 75 seasons. Driving for 23XI (co-owned by Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan), Wallace secured top-5s and numerous top-10s, making history as the top-ranked African-American driver.
7. Ryan Blaney’s Unexpected Cup Victory
Ryan Blaney’s maiden Cup triumph with Team Penske was noteworthy but landed toward the bottom of the top-10 recap. His three wins lacked the numerical punch of previous champions. The story focused more on his championship win than statistical dominance.
6. Chase Elliott’s Challenging Year
Chase Elliott’s ’23 was marred by early-season injury and a suspension. With diminished top finishes and missing the playoffs, his career-worst performance contrasted with his continuous fan support.
5. Denny Hamlin’s Playoff Miss
Surprising many, Denny Hamlin, a regular in Playoffs, faced a mediocre season and missed the championship race. Strong performances in almost every race but a DNF at Homestead halted his Playoff journey.
4. Brad Keselowski’s Resurgence at RFK Racing
RFK Racing’s revival, led by Brad Keselowski, marked a breakthrough with three wins, showcasing improvements from a struggling past.
3. Retirements of NASCAR Veterans
Season’s end saw the retirements of champions Kevin Harvick and Kurt Busch, alongside well-regarded veteran Aric Almirola.
2. NASCAR’s Unique Ventures
NASCAR’s intriguing forays took the sport off the beaten path. The return to North Wilkesboro, a LeMans entry, and racing through Chicago’s streets showcased diverse approaches to racing.
1. William Byron’s Remarkable Year
William Byron quietly led the Cup Series with six victories, standing out in the No. 24 Chevrolet previously driven by Jeff Gordon. His consistency across races marked a defining narrative of the year.
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