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Emerson Axsom Claims 2026 Chili Bowl as Kyle Larson’s Title Defense Ends in Flip

The 21-year-old capitalized on lapped-traffic chaos that eliminated the defending champion.

Overview

  • Starting second, Axsom took the lead from polesitter Kyle Larson early and controlled the 55-lap feature at Tulsa’s Expo Center.
  • Larson flipped around lap 16 after contacting a slowing C.J. Leary in lapped traffic, ending his bid for a fourth Golden Driller.
  • Larson said he clipped Leary’s rear bumper as the 55x slowed with a right-front issue, which turned his car into the wall.
  • Axsom’s No. 39A Swindell Speedlab entry withstood late charges, edging Kevin Thomas Jr., with Hank Davis Jr. third, Logan Seavey fourth and Briggs Danner fifth.
  • The victory marked Axsom’s first Golden Driller and the event’s 24th different champion, achieved in just his sixth Chili Bowl start.