Kyle Larson won the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Championship. He competed against Denny Hamlin, William Byron, and Chase Briscoe in the final race at Phoenix Raceway.

Championship Contenders

• Kyle Larson : Driver for Hendrick Motorsports, Larson secured his second championship.

• Denny Hamlin : Representing Joe Gibbs Racing, Hamlin was a strong contender for his first championship.

• William Byron : Also driving for Hendrick Motorsports, Byron aimed for his inaugural championship title.

• Chase Briscoe : In his debut season with Joe Gibbs Racing, Briscoe also sought his first championship.

Playoff Format

The NASCAR playoffs involve several rounds of eliminations. The final race features four championship contenders who compete for the title, with the winner determined by who finishes best among them. Drivers eliminated in earlier rounds can still compete for positions 5-16 in the season standings.

Eligibility Changes for 2026

NASCAR is implementing changes for the 2026 season regarding Cup Series drivers' eligibility in lower series races. Drivers with over three years of full-time experience will be allowed to enter a maximum of 10 races in the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series (formerly Xfinity Series) and 8 races in the Truck Series, an increase from the previous limit of five races in both series. Additionally, the minimum age for the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series will be lowered to 17 for road courses and ovals 1.25 miles or less.