Chase Briscoe, a contender for the NASCAR Cup Series Championship 4, faced a tense moment during Friday’s only practice session for the season-ending race at Phoenix Raceway, enduring a flat tire that drew immediate attention. This Chase Briscoe practice scare happened just minutes into the key session, raising concerns for both Briscoe and other top competitors as the final race draws near.
Early Tire Troubles Disrupt Key Practice for Briscoe
Within five minutes of the opening of Friday’s practice at Phoenix Raceway, Briscoe’s No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota suffered a flat left-rear tire while on the frontstretch of the one-mile oval. The incident halted the session with a yellow flag, introducing early uncertainty to Briscoe’s championship preparations. Thankfully, the car sustained only minor damage, as he was able to quickly decelerate, avoiding any contact with the outside wall when the tire failed on a straight portion of the track.
“The No. 19 slows in the middle of the corner! A concerning start for @chasebriscoe in this lone #Championship4 practice. pic.twitter.com/bXAT4Z2n2h”
— NASCAR (@NASCAR)
Multiple Drivers Experience Similar Tire Issues
Briscoe’s flat tire was not an isolated event. AJ Allmendinger, another Cup Series driver, also sustained a flat during the same session. Moments later, Christopher Bell—driving another JGR Toyota—experienced a similar failure, as did Daniel Suarez. These early incidents suggest tire issues could become a recurring concern throughout the race weekend, especially for drivers like Briscoe who are competing for the championship.
Implications for the Championship 4 Ahead of the Final Race
At the time of Briscoe’s incident, he was positioned 18th on the timing charts. In comparison, William Byron was the fastest among the Championship 4 contenders at fourth, while Austin Cindric led the overall session before the caution. This disruption means Briscoe’s No. 19 team now faces less practice time, needing to focus on repairs and ensuring the car is fully prepared for the critical finale, which could leave Briscoe at a disadvantage compared to his three playoff competitors.
As the championship contenders—Briscoe included—head into the decisive NASCAR Cup Series race, attention will be fixed on whether tire reliability becomes a determining factor in both safety and strategy. The prevalence of flat tires during practice has prompted concern among teams, with implications for how Saturday’s final and the title fight may unfold.
The No. 19 slows in the middle of the corner!
A concerning start for @chasebriscoe in this lone #Championship4 practice. pic.twitter.com/bXAT4Z2n2h
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) October 31, 2025
