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Kyle Larson Takes 2025 Cup Title in Phoenix Overtime After Late-Tire Strategy Gamble

A late caution with divergent tire calls flipped the finale in Larson’s favor.

Overview

  • Denny Hamlin led 208 of 312 laps and held a multi-second lead before William Byron’s right-front tire failure triggered the late caution.
  • On the final stop Hamlin took four tires while Kyle Larson took two, restarting ahead and finishing third behind Ryan Blaney and Brad Keselowski to secure the championship.
  • Larson acknowledged mixed feelings, saying it felt like he "stole" the title from close friend Hamlin, and he credited crew chief Cliff Daniels for the decisive two-tire calls.
  • Kevin Harvick said he was "absolutely gutted" for Hamlin and highlighted the four-tire decision as one of the toughest calls a crew chief can face.
  • Hamlin visited Larson’s celebration to "pay my respects" and later received a standing ovation at the NASCAR Awards as he said he needs time before thinking about driving again.