Kyle Larson and Denny Hamlin are entering the new season as frontrunners for the NASCAR Cup Series Championship, according to odds released by BetOnline Sportsbook. The 2025 champion Larson is expected to adapt well to the season’s opener at Bowman Gray Stadium, as he seeks to add another victory to his successful racing record.
Bowman Gray Stadium Kicks Off the Season
Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is set to host the season-opening exhibition race, which takes place Wednesday night after being postponed due to snow on Sunday. The track features a flat, zero-degree banking over its unique quarter-mile layout, distinguishing it from the more common high-banked circuits on the schedule. Comparable short tracks, like Martinsville Speedway, New Hampshire Motor Speedway, and Phoenix Raceway, differ in length but share the difficulty of minimal banking, which tests drivers’ skill and adaptability.
Kyle Larson’s Recent Success on Flat Short Tracks
Larson’s recent performances on similar tracks have solidified his favorite status. Over his last 15 short-track events at ovals with limited banking—such as Martinsville, New Hampshire, and Phoenix—Larson logged an impressive 12 top-five finishes. His prowess at these venues was underscored by his third-place finish in the 2025 Championship 4 race at Phoenix last November, a result that secured his second drivers’ championship title. This exceptional run makes Bowman Gray a promising setting as Larson targets another early-season triumph.
Top Finishers in 2025 Cup Series Standings
The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series championship concluded with the following final standings:
1. Kyle Larson – 5,034 points
2. Denny Hamlin – 5,031 points
3. Chase Briscoe – 5,019 points
4. William Byron – 5,004 points
5. Christopher Bell – 2,403 points
Each contender impacted last season’s title battle, and they are poised to remain competitive going into 2026.
Larson and Hamlin Leading the Odds for 2026
As the new season begins, BetOnline Sportsbook has listed both Kyle Larson and Denny Hamlin at +500 to win the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series Championship. Larson, already a two-time champion (2021 and 2025), is aiming for another title run, while Hamlin, despite consistently strong performances, is still in pursuit of his first championship. Ryan Blaney, last year’s Phoenix finale winner, has been given favorable odds for the Cook Out Clash, the season-opening exhibition race.
NASCAR Cup Series 2026 Championship Betting Overview
The title chase is shaping up to include a mix of established champions and rising talents, with Larson and Hamlin as the favorites. The odds reflect not only their recent performances but also their adaptability to the unique challenges presented by the season opener at venues like Bowman Gray Stadium.
“THE TIRE STRATEGY PAYS OFF!
KYLE LARSON IS THE 2025 NASCAR CUP SERIES CHAMPION! pic.twitter.com/O3eNtB7IrL” — NASCAR (@NASCAR) November 3, 2025
The race at Bowman Gray will set the tone for a season that promises fierce competition as top drivers look to seize momentum early. With Larson’s record of success on demanding short tracks and Hamlin’s determination to secure his first title, the battle for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series Championship is set to captivate fans and reshape the championship narrative.
THE TIRE STRATEGY PAYS OFF!
KYLE LARSON IS THE 2025 NASCAR CUP SERIES CHAMPION! pic.twitter.com/O3eNtB7IrL
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) November 3, 2025
