Kyle Larson denied Denny Hamlin his first career championship when a late caution at Phoenix Raceway sent title-deciding finale into overtime.

Denny Hamlin was dominant, but a late caution combined with Kyle Larson's gamble scuttled the chance for Hamlin's first-ever NASCAR Cup championship.

Denny Hamlin’s quest for his first NASCAR championship begins from the pole position at Phoenix Raceway on Sunday

Ryan Blaney won the NASCAR Cup Series season finale in overtime at Phoenix Raceway, making a last-lap pass of Brad Keselowski for his fourth victory this season and 17th of his career. Kyle Larson finished third to capture his second Cup championship.

Kyle Larson, 33, outdueled Denny Hamlin, Chase Briscoe and William Byron to win his second title following his 2021 championship.

Larson staged a dramatic late comeback over veteran Denny Hamlin after the caution flag came out with three laps remaining and Hamlin holding a large lead.

Kyle Larson prevailed as the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series champion at Phoenix Raceway Sunday. A late caution denied Denny Hamlin of his first title.

Denny Hamlin’s first career title slipped through his fingers once again thanks to circumstances entirely out of his control.