The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Championship: A Showdown at Phoenix Raceway
After a rollercoaster of emotion and competition across 37 races over nine months, the stage is set for the grand finale: the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Championship at Phoenix Raceway. This Sunday, November 2, fans will gather at Arizona’s “Desert Diamond” for a showdown among the four championship contenders, each vying for one ultimate prize—the coveted Bill France Cup. With so much on the line, this race promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the NASCAR season.
How to Watch
The championship event will kick off at 3 p.m. ET, broadcast live on NBC and simulcast on Peacock. Fans are encouraged to tune in early for Countdown to Green at 2 p.m. ET, providing insightful pre-race analysis and setting the stage for the excitement to come.
Championship Contenders
The field of four for this year’s championship includes some heavy hitters, each possessing unique strengths and strategies:
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Chase Briscoe
- Team: Joe Gibbs Racing
- Car: No. 19 Toyota
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Denny Hamlin
- Team: Joe Gibbs Racing
- Car: No. 11 Toyota
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William Byron
- Team: Hendrick Motorsports
- Car: No. 24 Chevrolet
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Kyle Larson
- Team: Hendrick Motorsports
- Car: No. 5 Chevrolet
These four drivers not only possess remarkable skill but also significant momentum heading into the final race.
Recent Highlights
William Byron recently clinched his spot in the championship race by dominating the Xfinity 500 at Martinsville Speedway. Leading a career-best 304 laps, Byron fended off notable competitors like Ryan Blaney, thereby eliminating Christopher Bell from contention. This victory not only propels Byron into the championship but also marks a pivotal moment where Hendrick Motorsports aims to reclaim the spotlight against Joe Gibbs Racing.
Key Storylines
As the drivers prepare for the high-stakes showdown, several narratives emerge that could shape the race:
Kyle Larson: The Under Pressure Veteran
Kyle Larson, as the only former champion among the contenders, enters the race with a 23-race winless streak—a reality that may heighten the stakes for him. However, he leads an experienced team, guided by the only winning crew chief in the championship lineup, Cliff Daniels. The combination of experience and resolve makes Larson a formidable challenger.
Denny Hamlin: The Seasoned Contender
Denny Hamlin enters the final race with six victories this season, a testament to his relentless drive. Although he has faced recent challenges, including engine failures, Hamlin’s resilience and experience could give him the edge he needs to convert this opportunity into his long-awaited championship.
Chase Briscoe: The Dark Horse
Chase Briscoe is a compelling contender, especially considering his consistency throughout the season. Having secured his first Cup Series win at Phoenix in 2022, Briscoe has demonstrated significant growth as a driver. His experience at this track, combined with his determination, makes him a serious threat to the competition.
William Byron: Riding a Wave of Confidence
After his triumphant win at Martinsville, Byron arrives in Phoenix with newfound confidence. Having shown consistent performance at this track—including a victory earlier in 2023—Byron is poised to leverage both his skills and current momentum in the championship.
Team Rivalries
The championship race is not just about individual drivers; it’s also a battle between two of NASCAR’s powerhouses: Hendrick Motorsports and Joe Gibbs Racing. Together, they boast a combined total of 19 Cup Series championships. This year’s contest provides both teams with the chance to etch their names further into NASCAR history—Hendrick seeking its astonishing 15th title, while JGR aims for its seventh.
The potential for a scenario where one team’s driver wins the Driver’s Championship while the other claims the Owner’s Championship adds an intriguing layer to the story. As the green flag drops, fans will witness two of the most successful organizations in sports battling it out for glory.
Ready for Action
With the final race on the horizon, excitement is building for what promises to be a spectacular culmination of the 2025 NASCAR season. Whether you’re rooting for a particular driver or simply a fan of the sport, the championship at Phoenix Raceway is sure to deliver high-octane drama unlike any other. Don’t miss the action—tune in to NBC and Peacock for a front-row seat to history in the making!