The NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs have reached a critical moment, as the field for the Championship 4 has been confirmed following an intense race at Martinsville. Denny Hamlin, Chase Briscoe, William Byron, and Kyle Larson have emerged as the top contenders who will compete for the ultimate title at Phoenix, earning their places after a hard-fought season and crucial performances in recent events.
Road to the Championship: How the Finalists Secured Their Spots
The journey to Phoenix was marked by key victories and consistent excellence from each of the four drivers. Denny Hamlin ensured his place in the Championship 4 after a decisive win in the first race of the Round of 8 at Las Vegas. Chase Briscoe clinched his spot by capturing victory at Talladega last week, marking a pivotal achievement in his career. William Byron delivered a memorable performance at Martinsville, winning the race on Sunday to confirm his chance at the title. Kyle Larson, meanwhile, gathered enough points throughout the playoffs to secure his position among the final competitors, demonstrating his skill and resilience.
The significance of this quartet battling for the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs championship cannot be overstated, given the varied paths each driver took to reach this stage. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly watching to see whether Hamlin can finally capture his first championship, or if one of the other drivers will claim the top spot in the sport’s most prestigious event.
The Drivers Behind the Headlines: Hamlin, Briscoe, Byron, and Larson
Denny Hamlin, who drives for Joe Gibbs Racing, is once again at the forefront of the championship conversation. His pursuit of a first career title has been a central storyline throughout the season. Joe Gibbs, founder and owner of Joe Gibbs Racing, shared his perspective on what the moment means for Hamlin’s legacy:
“I just think for him, there won’t be a lot of talking about it because he knows everything’s at stake in this. This has been his life. This is all he’s wanted to do, is race cars,”
— Joe Gibbs, Owner, Joe Gibbs Racing.
The role of family and faith has also been highlighted, especially in Chase Briscoe’s journey. Briscoe, competing in his first season with Joe Gibbs Racing after the closure of Stewart-Haas Racing, expressed his gratitude for the opportunities and support that led him to this point:
“So thankful that the Lord has blessed me opening doors, even closing doors at times,”
— Chase Briscoe, Driver, Joe Gibbs Racing.
“Opening an incredible door here with Joe Gibbs Racing. I say it all the time, even today, I had such a peace. Normally, I’m scared to death, nervous wreck around this place. I had such a peace that regardless of the finish. He was going to use it somehow for His glory. Ends up in Victory Lane.”
— Chase Briscoe, Driver, Joe Gibbs Racing.
William Byron and Kyle Larson have also demonstrated stellar racing acumen throughout the season, maintaining focus and consistency to earn their spots in the final four. The combined efforts of these drivers underscore the high level of competition in this year’s playoffs.
Building Up to the Championship Showdown
Anticipation is building for the NASCAR Cup Series Championship race, scheduled for Sunday, November 2, at Phoenix Raceway, starting at 3 p.m. ET and airing live on NBC. As the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs approach their conclusion, speculation is mounting about whether this will finally be the season where Hamlin solidifies his legacy or if Briscoe, Byron, or Larson will rise to become the sport’s newest champion.
Joe Gibbs reflected on Hamlin’s path and the pivotal role of J.D. Gibbs in bringing him into the team:
“When J.D. found him — I really thought last night with Young Life, J.D. was huge in Young Life, and that’s part of the reason we’re working with that ministry. But when J.D. found him racing late models, J.D. gets a lot of the credit because he put Denny in a test, he put him in a truck, in an Xfinity car. Finally, he said to me, I think we need to sign this guy.”
— Joe Gibbs, Owner, Joe Gibbs Racing.
Significance and What Lies Ahead
The upcoming race at Phoenix not only determines the new NASCAR Cup Series champion but also highlights the dedication, talent, and resilience of the drivers and their teams. With personalities like Hamlin, Briscoe, Byron, and Larson, the championship’s outcome is uncertain, ensuring that fans can expect an energetic and memorable conclusion to the playoffs. The NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs have showcased the sport’s competitive spirit, with every lap and every win bringing these four drivers closer to racing history.
Four left in the fight.
This is the #Championship4 in the NASCAR Cup Series! pic.twitter.com/0UT1XbuNrZ
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) October 26, 2025
