Denny Hamlin experienced a devastating setback in his quest for a NASCAR title during the 2025 Cup Series finale at Phoenix Raceway, highlighting the core of Denny Hamlin championship heartbreak. After dominating the majority of the race and leading 208 of 312 laps, Hamlin watched his championship hopes slip away to Kyle Larson following a dramatic final restart, with Larson of Hendrick Motorsports seizing his second career championship. The tight contest and mutual respect between the drivers brought a wave of mixed emotions, culminating in a race that was as emotional as it was fiercely competitive.
Last-Minute Twist Disrupts Championship Plans
With just three laps left on the board, Hamlin appeared close to his first ever championship victory. However, William Byron’s No. 24 Chevrolet Camaro suffered a tire failure and crashed into the wall, triggering a late yellow flag and forcing teams to make critical decisions about tires. At this crucial juncture, Hamlin and his team chose to change all four tires, believing it was the safest and strongest move for the restart. Meanwhile, in a bold call, Kyle Larson decided to change only two tires, setting the stage for a high-stakes dash to the finish.
Larson’s strategy proved successful as he overtook Hamlin on the final restart, ultimately capturing the Cup Series title. The atmosphere in Victory Lane was a mix of jubilation for Larson and visible disappointment for Hamlin, as both drivers saw not just the outcome but the journey’s emotional weight.
Reactions from the Championship Deciding Moment
Kyle Larson, addressing reporters in the post-race press conference, reflected on the impact of his triumph and Hamlin’s heartbreak. He said,
“I definitely have a lot of empathy for him. I think I said it in the interview I did on the stage. It is great to celebrate and all that. But it does feel a bit awkward.”
— Kyle Larson, Driver
He continued,
“He has put in so much time and energy, and he has been so close to winning championships, and this is the closest he has ever been. Sure, he is a competitor. But he is a friend. I was gonna be happy for him to win. That was what I was thinking about. I couldn’t wait to tell him, ‘Good job!’ But then the caution came out and the script flipped right there.”
— Kyle Larson, Driver
Amid the mix of elation and empathy, Larson candidly noted the oddity of the situation, stating,
“But that’s the competition and that’s the format. It is just weird,”
— Kyle Larson, Driver
These remarks showcased the emotional highs and lows that define racing at the highest level, with rivalries that transcend the checkered flag and resonate with fans and competitors alike.
Hamlin Reflects on What Went Wrong
Despite the disappointment, Hamlin maintained a positive outlook in his comments to NBC Sports after the race. He explained the pivotal decision during the final yellow flag, remarking,
“We took four tires. I thought that definitely was the right call.”
— Denny Hamlin, Driver
Hamlin also expressed gratitude to his team for their efforts throughout the season, saying,
“Just so many cars took two there. Obviously, put us back. The team did a fantastic job. They prepared a championship car. Just didn’t happen. I’ll try (to win a title again). I got a couple more shots at it.”
— Denny Hamlin, Driver
His remarks underscored both pride in his crew’s performance and his determination to keep chasing the sport’s highest honor, despite this most recent heartbreak.
The Ripple Effect of a Thrilling Finale
The 2025 Cup Series finale at Phoenix will be remembered not only for the strategic gambles that shaped its outcome, but also for the sportsmanship and emotional resonance between Denny Hamlin and newly crowned champion Kyle Larson. Moments like this reinforce the unpredictable nature of NASCAR’s playoff system, where a single caution can alter the championship script within minutes. As the dust settles at Phoenix, fans, teams, and drivers alike are left reflecting on the intensity and humanity that define the sport, while the story of Denny Hamlin championship heartbreak continues to inspire determination for seasons to come.
The newest two-time champion in NASCAR is here!
Listen in as @KyleLarsonRacin addresses reporters in the @phoenixraceway Media Center. #KL5
https://t.co/3mNGJL0dJW— NASCAR (@NASCAR) November 3, 2025
