The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series finale delivered plenty of drama as Kyle Larson clinched the championship in a nail-biting overtime finish, edging out Denny Hamlin and fueling the ongoing Denny Hamlin Cup title controversy. The memorable race in California saw Larson claim his second Bill France Cup, despite not leading a single lap, adding further intrigue to the outcome.
Larson’s Victory Sparks Debate Among Fans and Insiders
The result immediately stirred divisive reactions across the NASCAR community, with some fans questioning the legitimacy of Larson’s triumph due to the role a timely caution played. Denny Hamlin, a sentimental favorite and driver of the No. 11 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing, missed out in part because Larson’s Hendrick Motorsports team capitalized on the situation with perfect execution and a bold pit strategy. This has sparked a wave of debate, with some voices in the paddock and among fans accusing the Chevy team of “stealing” the title from Hamlin, igniting what is now known as the Denny Hamlin Cup title controversy.
Despite this criticism, Kyle Larson has not only directly addressed these accusations but has also offered his own humorous take.
I mean, yes and no. Sure, yeah we stole it, but our team did a really good job. I think that’s what I’m most proud of. Just how quickly we kind of turned our race around, obviously, due to some good fortune with cautions and the correct pit calls and strategy. Which weren’t clear decisions, either, and everybody kind of executed when they needed to.
Kyle Larson said via Floracing..
Larson emphasized that the pivotal moment came through a combination of his team’s hard work and a bit of luck on race day. He admitted the circumstances were unique, but credited the whole Hendrick Motorsports crew, including the strategists and pit crew, for staying sharp and making the right moves under pressure when it mattered most. The No. 5 team’s last-minute strategy turnaround allowed them to seize an opportunity that might have otherwise gone to Hamlin’s Toyota squad if they had matched Larson’s team’s efforts during the final overtime stint.
Defending the Championship: Season Performance Beyond the Finale
Larson pushed back at the notion that not leading in the final race makes his team any less deserving of the championship. Instead, he highlighted their consistent performance throughout the season as the real marker of their worthiness.
So, yeah, we didn’t dominate the race by any means, not even leading a lap, but I feel like our team did the best job, and we are deserving champions in that respect. And two, when you look at it, we did have a great season with laps led and consistent finishes and top-fives and top-10s. We were in the top two in basically every category. So, it was a great year and I’m proud of that.
Kyle Larson added.
Larson pointed out the team’s strong statistics: three race wins, 15 top-five finishes, 22 top-tens, more than 1,100 laps led, and an average finish just above 13th position. According to the veteran driver, those season-long achievements would have put them on top even under traditional NASCAR formats that reward consistency across the entire championship. The debate over the finish only amplified attention on the Chevy-powered No. 5 crew’s season-long standards and what it means for how NASCAR crowns its champions—especially as calls grow louder regarding dramatic playoff and overtime influences.
Elk Grove and Sonoma Celebrate Larson’s Championship
Following his emotional championship win, Kyle Larson returned to his hometown, Elk Grove in California, where the local community celebrated his achievements. In partnership with Sonoma Raceway, the city organized a celebratory event to recognize Larson’s success, marking another milestone in his career.
Yeah, it’s cool. It just makes you feel special when the city you grew up in and your local race track, Sonoma Raceway, kind of get together to host this. So, yeah, it feels good.
Kyle Larson said.
The veteran was welcomed with a hero’s reception as a large crowd of fans turned out for the festivities. Family, friends, and longtime supporters of the driver joined together, making the occasion especially meaningful for Larson. This show of appreciation demonstrated the pride and excitement his title run brought back to Elk Grove and the broader California racing community.
There’s a good fan turnout, and getting to see family and friends and all that is special because I don’t get to see them too much. Happy to be here and just looking forward to the parade here in a little bit.
Kyle Larson added.
The parade, which was held in his honor, featured enthusiastic support from every corner of his hometown. For Larson, the victory celebrations served not just as recognition of his second championship, but also as motivation to keep pushing for more. Being surrounded by his loved ones and fans gave him renewed inspiration for the seasons ahead.
Larson Sets Sights on More Championships
As Kyle Larson enjoys the adulation and recognition that comes with being a multi-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, he remains focused on setting even higher goals. Inspired by his recent achievements and the warm welcome from his community, Larson has committed to working even harder in pursuit of joining the exclusive group of drivers who have won more than two championship titles. Fellow racers and entities like Justin Allgaier and Dale Earnhardt Jr., mentioned in recent racing news, serve as reminders of the drive needed to reach the sport’s upper echelon.
The Denny Hamlin Cup title controversy is sure to fuel debates in the NASCAR community for some time yet. Larson’s combination of skill, luck, and his team’s sharp execution in high-pressure moments has cemented his place atop the sport—at least for now. As the series looks to future seasons, all eyes will be on how the playoff format and overtime strategies shape the path to victory, and whether Larson can make history once again amid NASCAR’s ever-shifting landscape.
