Denny Hamlin claimed the top starting spot for the NASCAR Cup Series Championship at Phoenix Raceway, leading a competitive qualifying session on Saturday. Hamlin’s fast lap gives him prime track position going into Sunday’s decisive season-finale, where he will compete against other top contenders for his first title in the sport’s highest series.
Hamlin Leads the Field for the Title Decider
The pressure was high as 38 starters lined up for qualifying at Phoenix Raceway, each aiming for an advantage ahead of the season’s most important race. Playoff drivers including Denny Hamlin, William Byron, Chase Briscoe, and Kyle Larson were especially focused, knowing that their starting positions could shape their championship hopes.
Hamlin delivered the quickest qualifying run, stopping the clock at 26.914 seconds at a speed of 133.759 mph. This pole comes on the heels of his recent 60th career Cup Series victory at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, further solidifying his form as the championship showdown approaches. Despite his numerous accolades, Hamlin is still pursuing his first championship in NASCAR’s premier series.
Key Rivals Ready for Championship Fight
William Byron was close behind in qualifying with a lap of 26.956 seconds (133.551 mph). Byron, who has finished third in driver standings for three consecutive seasons, also seeks his first title in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Kyle Larson, the 2021 series champion from Elk Grove, CA, qualified third with a time of 26.979 seconds (133.437 mph). Larson has demonstrated his pace throughout the year, making him one of the top competitors to watch when the green flag waves for the NASCAR Cup Series Championship race.
Rounding out the top five on the starting grid are Austin Cindric and Ryan Blaney, both looking to make a decisive impact as the season concludes.
Playoff Drivers Gear Up for the Phoenix Finale
Chase Briscoe, the fourth remaining playoff driver hoping to capture his first championship, will start Sunday’s race from 12th position on the grid. Like Hamlin and Byron, Briscoe is a contender without a previous Cup Series title, adding to the anticipation among fans and teams alike.
The NASCAR Cup Series Championship race is set to begin on Sunday at 3:00 p.m. ET, with live coverage on NBC, Peacock, and MRN Radio. With Hamlin starting up front and several strong rivals lined up behind him, the finale at Phoenix Raceway promises a close and exciting contest for the season’s top honors.
What’s at Stake for Sunday’s Championship Race
The battle for the NASCAR Cup Series Championship will not only showcase the speed and skill of drivers like Hamlin, Byron, Larson, and Briscoe, but will also highlight the intense preparation and determination needed to win in NASCAR’s top division. Fans tuning in to NBC, Peacock, or MRN Radio can expect a thrilling showdown as these athletes race for the championship at Phoenix.
