Larson Clinches Second NASCAR Cup Series Title in Dramatic Finish, Hamlin Secures Runner-Up Spot

In a season that defied expectations, Kyle Larson was crowned the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series champion, securing his second career title in a breathtaking finale at Phoenix Raceway. The Hendrick Motorsports driver, who did not lead a single lap in the championship-deciding race, remarkably claimed the ultimate prize through a strategic and consistent performance throughout the 36-race season. This victory marks a significant achievement for Larson, solidifying his place among NASCAR’s elite drivers.

The championship race itself was a thrilling spectacle, with Ryan Blaney of Team Penske ultimately crossing the finish line first, executing a daring pass on Brad Keselowski in the final corner. Blaney’s victory in the race, however, was overshadowed by the championship outcome, with Larson finishing third in the race and earning enough points to secure the title. Denny Hamlin, a seasoned veteran and a consistent contender throughout the season, was forced to settle for second place in the final championship standings, marking his first runner-up finish since 2010.

The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season saw a robust field of competitors, with 60 different drivers taking the green flag in at least one points-paying event. Of these, 43 were eligible to score championship points, underscoring the depth and competitiveness of the series. A dedicated 35 drivers demonstrated remarkable consistency by participating in all 36 races, highlighting their commitment and endurance over the demanding schedule.

Chase Briscoe, driving for Stewart-Haas Racing, achieved a career-best points finish, securing third place in the final standings. This impressive performance represents a significant step forward for Briscoe, indicating his growing prowess and potential for future championship challenges. His strong showing alongside Larson and Blaney in the top three reflects the evolving landscape of top-tier NASCAR competition.

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For Joey Logano, the 2024 champion, the 2025 season proved to be a challenging one. After failing to advance to the Championship 4, Logano concluded the year in seventh place in the overall standings. This outcome signifies the intense competition within the series, where defending a championship title requires sustained excellence and adaptability. Logano’s performance serves as a reminder of the fine margins that separate success from disappointment in the Cup Series.

A notable statistical anomaly of the 2025 season was the performance of Kyle Busch. The two-time Cup Series champion experienced a significant dip in his championship standing, finishing outside the top 20 for the first time in his two decades as a full-time Cup Series driver. Busch concluded the season in 21st place, with a top-five finish in the season finale offering a glimmer of his past form. This unprecedented placement for Busch underscores the ongoing evolution of the series and the increasing competitiveness across the entire field.

The Rookie of the Year honors went to Shane van Gisbergen, a talented international driver who made a significant impact in his debut Cup Series season. Van Gisbergen finished the year impressively in 12th place in the standings, demonstrating exceptional adaptability and skill in transitioning to NASCAR’s premier series. His performance signals a growing trend of international talent making their mark in American stock car racing.

In the team standings, RFK Racing emerged as the "best of the rest," showcasing strong performances throughout the season. Chris Buescher, a key driver for RFK Racing, secured 17th place in the standings for the second consecutive year, highlighting the team’s consistent capability and development. Buescher’s steady presence in the top 20 signifies RFK Racing’s sustained competitiveness and their commitment to challenging the established frontrunners.

The 2025 season was characterized by intense rivalries, strategic pit stops, and the ever-present drama that defines NASCAR. Each race presented unique challenges, from drafting battles on superspeedways to the precise handling required on road courses and short tracks. The championship contenders consistently demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure, adapting to changing track conditions and race strategies.

Larson’s championship victory, achieved without leading a single lap in the final race, speaks volumes about his overall season performance. It highlights the importance of accumulating points through consistent top finishes, strategic tire management, and avoiding costly mistakes. This approach, while perhaps less flashy than leading from the front, proved to be the most effective path to the championship in 2025. His ability to secure the title through sheer point accumulation, rather than a race-winning performance on the final day, is a testament to the nuanced nature of the NASCAR points system.

Denny Hamlin’s runner-up finish is another chapter in his storied career, underscoring his enduring status as a top-tier competitor. While the championship trophy eluded him once again, his consistent high-level performance throughout the season solidifies his reputation as one of the sport’s most formidable drivers. His ability to remain a championship threat year after year speaks to his skill, dedication, and the strength of his Joe Gibbs Racing team.

Ryan Blaney’s race win was a fitting conclusion to a strong season for him and Team Penske. While he ultimately fell short of the championship, his victory in the final race demonstrated his capability to perform at the highest level when it matters most. This win will undoubtedly serve as a significant confidence booster for Blaney and his team heading into the 2026 season.

The performance of Chase Briscoe in securing third place is a significant development for Stewart-Haas Racing. His career-best finish indicates a successful progression in his development as a driver and the team’s ability to provide him with competitive machinery. This upward trajectory suggests that Briscoe could be a serious championship contender in the coming seasons.

The struggles of Joey Logano, while disappointing for the defending champion, are a stark reminder of the competitive parity in NASCAR. The series is known for its unpredictable nature, where even the most accomplished drivers can face challenging seasons. Logano’s seventh-place finish, while not a championship defense, still places him within the top echelon of drivers, and his team will undoubtedly analyze their performance to regroup for future campaigns.

The statistical outlier of Kyle Busch finishing outside the top 20 highlights the generational shift occurring within the sport. While Busch remains a formidable talent, the emergence of new stars and the continued development of established drivers are reshaping the competitive landscape. His 21st-place finish is a statistical anomaly that will be closely examined, but it also underscores the increasing depth of talent across the entire grid.

Shane van Gisbergen’s Rookie of the Year title and 12th-place finish are exceptional achievements. His success in adapting to oval racing, a discipline vastly different from his touring car roots, is a testament to his raw talent and dedication. His performance has undoubtedly opened doors for further international drivers to consider NASCAR as a premier racing destination.

RFK Racing’s consistent performance, exemplified by Chris Buescher’s 17th-place finishes in consecutive seasons, demonstrates the team’s steady progress. Under the leadership of Brad Keselowski and Bob Jenkins, RFK Racing has been diligently rebuilding and improving, and their consistent presence in the top half of the standings is a clear indicator of their forward momentum.

In summary, the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season culminated in Kyle Larson’s second championship, a testament to his consistent excellence. Denny Hamlin secured a strong second, while Ryan Blaney took the checkered flag in the final race. The season also highlighted emerging talents like Chase Briscoe and Shane van Gisbergen, while veteran drivers like Kyle Busch faced unexpected challenges. The series continues to evolve, offering thrilling racing and compelling storylines that captivate fans worldwide.