Kyle Larson weathered the storm to claim 2025 NASCAR championship

Published: Monday, November 3, 2025 at 3:22 am

Larson Claims Second NASCAR Cup Series Championship in Dramatic Fashion

Kyle Larson has secured his second NASCAR Cup Series championship, overcoming a challenging season and a dramatic final race. Unlike his dominant 2021 title run, Larson's 2025 victory was earned through grit and strategic decisions.

The championship was decided in overtime at the season finale. Crew chief Cliff Daniels made a pivotal call, opting for a two-tire pit stop while rival Denny Hamlin took four. This gave Larson a crucial advantage on the restart. Despite finishing third in the race, without leading any laps, Larson's position was enough to secure the championship.

The 2025 season presented a stark contrast to Larson's previous success. He only managed three race wins, with his last victory occurring in May. A mid-season slump and a disappointing first round of the playoffs raised concerns among fans. However, Larson rebounded strongly, achieving six top-seven finishes in the seven playoff races.

The final race at Phoenix Raceway saw Larson facing adversity. A flat tire early in Stage 3 put him behind. When a late caution came out, he was fourth, but the two-tire strategy on the final pit stop propelled him to the front. Larson capitalized on the restart, pulling away from Hamlin to secure the championship.

Larson acknowledged the season's difficulties, highlighting the team's resilience. He described the final race as having "insane circumstances" that led to the victory.

BNN's Perspective:

Larson's victory underscores the unpredictable nature of NASCAR. While his season wasn't as dominant as his first championship run, his ability to overcome adversity and capitalize on strategic opportunities demonstrates the skill and adaptability required to win at the highest level. The two-tire strategy gamble by his crew chief proved to be a masterstroke, showcasing the importance of in-race decision-making.

Keywords: Kyle Larson, NASCAR, Cup Series, Championship, Denny Hamlin, Cliff Daniels, Phoenix Raceway, Playoffs, Racing, Motorsports, Victory, Overtime, Season Finale

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