Layne Riggs wins Phoenix pole after overcoming the challenge of using a backup crew chief, securing the top qualifying spot for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Phoenix Raceway. Facing a directive to avoid any perceived advantage, Riggs set a fast time that resulted in a surprise pole as his Front Row Motorsports team also claimed the second starting position through Chandler Smith.
Strong Qualifying Effort at Phoenix Raceway
Despite having failed the initial technical inspection and working with an alternate crew chief, Riggs achieved a lap at 134.796 mph, which he described as unexpected yet effective. His performance not only put him at the front but also led to a Front Row Motorsports sweep of the front row, with Chandler Smith taking the second grid position.
In the next qualifying spots, TRICON Garage made their mark as ARCA Menards Series West pole winner Brent Crews secured third, and Tanner Gray lined up beside him in fourth. This result added competition at the front for tonight’s finale.
Championship Finalists and Other Contenders
With the championship race on the line, three of the four title contenders earned top-10 qualifying positions. Kaden Honeycutt is set to start fifth, closely followed by Corey Heim in sixth, while Ty Majeski—defending champion and last year’s Phoenix winner—will begin in ninth place.
Tyler Ankrum, tasked to stay focused and not overthink by his team, will face a greater challenge after qualifying only 21st among the championship hopefuls in his No. 18 truck.
All 34 trucks entered in the event have successfully qualified, promising a full field for the highly anticipated race.
Phoenix Truck Series Finale Lineup and Broadcast
The final race of the 2025 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Phoenix Raceway is scheduled for tonight, October 31, at 7:30 p.m. ET, airing on FOX Sports 1. Fans can expect intense competition as drivers like Riggs, Honeycutt, Heim, Majeski, Crews, and Ankrum battle for both the race win and the championship title.
With drama already unfolding in qualifying and a championship at stake, the spotlight is firmly on Layne Riggs and his impressive ability to adapt under adversity. The field is set, and so are the expectations for a memorable night at Phoenix.
