In fact, not only does the race for the championship and the 15 playoff points that come with it have no clear favorite, but the driver best positioned to win is somewhat of a surprise.
Following his late-surge to victory in Sunday’s Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Kyle Larson returned to the top of the series standings and now holds a 10-point advantage over his Hendrick Motorsports teammate Chase Elliott.
Normally, the idea of Larson – a former series champion and one of the most talented drivers in the sport – would not be at all surprising but one for important distinction: He has run one less race then all the other contenders this season.
Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports, HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro
Photo by: Rusty Jarrett / NKP / Motorsport Images
When Larson’s attempt to run “the Double” – the Indianapolis 500 and Coca-Cola 600 in the same day in May – was aborted because of weather in both locations, Larson was only able to complete the 500.
While NASCAR gave Larson a waiver for missing the race, he still collected zero points for the event. That means Larson has been competing on a level this season that keeps him ahead of his competition but basically having ran one less race than everyone else.
“I think the disappointment in the 600, not being able to finish that race, was extra motivation,” team owner Rick Hendrick said of Larson’s win on Sunday. “I’m glad that NASCAR gave us the waiver.
“I can’t tell you the disappointment we all had with the way that weekend ended up. I do think this was a celebration more than normal because of the disappointment we all had not finishing the job.”
Even with a series-high four wins, Larson is by no means certain to hang on to the points lead but the upcoming schedule bodes well for him.
At the final four tracks before the playoffs – Richmond, Michigan, Daytona and Darlington – Larson has won on all but Daytona and owns a collective six wins on the others.
Still, one slip-up could greatly alter the standings.
Chase Elliott, Hendrick Motorsports, NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet Camaro
Photo by: Nigel Kinrade / NKP / Motorsport Images
Elliott is only 10 points behind Larson but has led just one lap in the last four races. He looked like he could contend for wins the last two races but was hobbled by a penalty in each. He has no career wins on the four remaining tracks.
As far as momentum goes, Tyler Reddick could…
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