Kyle Larson Headlined the Final NASCAR Cup Series Race with a Strategic Win at Phoenix Raceway

Kyle Larson secured a dramatic victory in the final NASCAR Cup Series race on November 2 at Phoenix Raceway, upsetting Denny Hamlin to claim his second championship. The Hendrick Motorsports star finished two positions ahead of the No. 11 driver, thanks to a crucial tire strategy executed during the last pit stop.

Denny Hamlin, driving for Joe Gibbs Racing, was the fastest and most dominant competitor throughout the finale in Arizona. Although Hamlin led the most laps and appeared poised to win the championship, the 44-year-old driver ultimately lost his bid to Larson — who, interestingly, did not lead a single lap during the entire 319-lap race.

Reflecting on the intense competition, Hamlin said, “It’s great to celebrate and all that, but it does feel a little awkward because he has put so much time and energy, has been so close to winning so many championships. This is as close as he’s ever been. Sure, he’s a competitor, but he is a friend. I was going to be happy for him to win. That’s kind of what I was thinking about. Like, man, I can’t wait to go tell him, Good job. Then the caution came out and the script flipped right there.”

Kyle Larson also commented on the outcome, saying, “That’s competition. That’s the format. It’s just weird, you know? But yeah, I still hope someday he can get to feel what it’s like.”

The turning point of the race came with just three laps remaining. Hamlin was leading and looked set to add another trophy to his collection when an unexpected caution was triggered by William Byron’s flat tire. On the ensuing pit stops, Larson opted to take two right-side tires to gain track position, while Hamlin chose four tires. This strategic difference proved decisive and ultimately handed the championship to Larson.

### Kyle Larson Becomes a Multi-Time NASCAR Champion

This victory marked Larson’s second NASCAR Cup Series title, as well as Hendrick Motorsports’ 15th Cup Series championship. Following a challenging 36-race season, Larson managed to secure three wins, 15 top-five finishes, and 22 top-10 finishes.

Speaking to reporters after the race, the 32-time Cup race winner shared his thoughts on the memorable championship run:

“It’s still so fresh that it’s honestly hard to believe that I’m sitting right here talking to you guys after what we went through tonight. I think that’s probably going to be the thing that I look back on, is just how unbelievable today was—the last 40 minutes of the race for us. Yeah, just incredible.”

Larson also gave credit to his crew chief, Cliff Daniels, whose strategic calls and leadership played a critical role in guiding him to another championship title.

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