NASCAR Season Finale: Highlights and Heartbreaks from Phoenix

As the 2025 NASCAR season comes to a close, the final race at Phoenix provided a thrilling spectacle filled with drama, unexpected twists, and emotional moments. This year witnessed Kyle Larson emerge as a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, while Denny Hamlin faced one of the most painful losses of his career. The race was not just about crossing the finish line; it was a rollercoaster that left fans with mixed emotions, ranging from jubilation to heartbreak.

Kyle Larson’s Unlikely Triumph

Kyle Larson’s journey to his second championship was anything but conventional. His last victory in the season had come in May, and throughout the race at Phoenix, he didn’t lead a single lap and was not even the quickest among his teammates at Hendrick Motorsports. However, when the final restart presented a rare opportunity, Larson seized the moment with remarkable precision. He pushed forward, finishing third in the race, but more importantly, he became a two-time champion.

Larson’s victory is a testament to his ability to capitalize on opportunities, even when the odds seemed stacked against him. This unexpected win marked a significant moment in Larson’s career, especially after a season filled with speculation regarding his performance since the demanding double-header of the Indy 500 and the Coke 600.

Denny Hamlin’s Heartbreak

In stark contrast to Larson’s triumph, Denny Hamlin’s experience during the championship finale was one of crushing disappointment. Dominating much of the race from pole position, Hamlin led over 200 laps and appeared poised to finally secure his long-awaited championship title after two decades of near misses. However, a critical miscalculation regarding tire strategy during a late caution proved to be detrimental.

Instead of maintaining track position, Hamlin opted for fresh tires, only to find himself falling from tenth to sixth on the final restart. His emotional reaction post-race mirrored the disbelief of his fans and team. Hamlin has faced setbacks before, but this particular loss felt especially stinging, as he had come so close to achieving his dream.

Ryan Blaney’s Spoiler Role

Ryan Blaney, who had previously won the NASCAR Cup title two years ago, played the role of spoiler during the race. Despite not being in contention for the championship, Blaney seized the opportunity to win the race with a last-lap pass—an exhilarating moment that showcased his skill and tenacity. Unlike his past championship win, where he struggled to find a way past Ross Chastain, this time, Blaney’s performance was marked by determination and finesse.

While some might view missing the Championship 4 as a disappointment, Blaney remained focused on his victory, celebrating his fourth checkered flag of the season. His win added an exciting narrative to the race, proving that even those outside the championship fight can create memorable moments.

William Byron’s Regret

William Byron found himself in a position of regret after the race, as he played a pivotal role in altering the race’s outcome. A blown tire led to a caution that pushed the race into overtime, much to the dismay of his fellow competitors, particularly Hamlin. Byron’s frustration stemmed not from his own race but from the realization that his misfortune significantly impacted the championship battle.

Despite finishing fourth and demonstrating speed throughout the race, Byron’s disappointment was palpable. His acknowledgment of the situation reflected the camaraderie and sportsmanship that exists among drivers, even in the heat of competition.

Cliff Daniels: Masterful Decision-Making

Amid the chaos of the race, crew chief Cliff Daniels emerged as a key figure for Larson’s victory. While many teams opted for a tire strategy that prioritized fresh tires, Daniels made the bold decision to only replace the right-side tires during the critical overtime pit stop. This strategic choice allowed Larson to maintain a competitive edge and ultimately contributed to his championship win.

Daniels’ ability to make high-pressure decisions under the intense scrutiny of a championship race highlighted the importance of teamwork and strategy in NASCAR. His actions ensured that Larson was in a position to capitalize when it mattered most.

RFK Racing’s Near Miss

The RFK Racing team, which had struggled throughout the season, came tantalizingly close to breaking their winless streak at Phoenix. Brad Keselowski, one of their drivers, had an impressive run and managed to hold off the competition for a significant portion of the race. However, in a dramatic final corner, he overdrived the turn, allowing Blaney to slip past him and secure the victory.

This near miss was a bitter pill for RFK Racing, as their drivers had been in contention multiple times throughout the season but had yet to find victory lane. The excitement of their performance at Phoenix offered a glimpse of the potential that the team possesses heading into the next season.

Kyle Busch’s Silver Lining

Kyle Busch’s season has been one to forget, finishing a disappointing 21st in the standings, the worst result of his career. However, he managed to end the season on a high note by securing his only top-five finish on an oval this year. Utilizing a two-tire strategy during the race, Busch battled his way to a respectable finish, showcasing his resilience and skill as a driver.

As Busch looks forward to the 2026 season, he hopes to embrace a fresh start with a new crew chief. His experience at Phoenix, despite the struggles of the season, provided a glimmer of hope for a turnaround in the upcoming year.

The Controversial Playoff Format

The 2025 championship finale at Phoenix reignited discussions about the current playoff format in NASCAR. While the format has been praised for creating excitement and drama, many fans left the race feeling disillusioned. The peculiarities of the playoff system meant that Larson, who had shown little presence throughout the race, could become champion without leading a single lap.

This situation raised questions about fairness and the integrity of the championship. Fans expressed frustration over a system that prioritizes a few races over an entire season’s worth of performance. The sentiment was that while the spectacle of the playoffs delivers thrills, it may not accurately reflect the best driver of the season.

Corey Heim’s Dominance in Trucks

In the midst of the Cup Series drama, Corey Heim showcased his incredible talent in the NASCAR Truck Series. Heim had dominated the season with an unprecedented performance, shattering records left and right. During the final race, he started from tenth but made an astonishing seven-wide pass on the overtime restart, securing his place as the champion in a spectacular finish.

His remarkable achievement highlighted his potential as a rising star in NASCAR, even though he faces uncertainty regarding his future in the sport. Despite his success, Heim lacks a full-time ride for the upcoming season, which is a disappointing reality for such a talented driver.

Connor Zilisch’s Emotional Farewell

The season’s conclusion was also a heart-wrenching moment for Connor Zilisch, who had dominated the NASCAR Xfinity Series with an impressive ten wins. Despite his success throughout the season, Zilisch fell short in the championship race, losing his lead with just 24 laps to go. The emotional toll of the loss was evident as he sat in tears beside his car, grappling with the realization of what could have been.

Zilisch’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the highs and lows that define a competitive season. His performance throughout the year demonstrated his immense talent, and while he faced disappointment at the finale, his future in the sport remains bright.

The 2025 NASCAR season finale at Phoenix was a microcosm of the excitement, heartbreak, and unpredictability that defines the sport. With champions crowned and dreams dashed, the stage is set for a new season, filled with hope and the promise of more thrilling moments on the racetrack. As the NASCAR community reflects on this year’s experiences, the anticipation for what lies ahead continues to build.