Story perspectives
NASCAR Playoff Format Under Fire After Controversial Championship
11/10/2025
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Story summary
- The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series playoff format remains controversial after Denny Hamlin's six wins.
- Kyle Larson won the championship despite Hamlin's success.
- Dale Earnhardt Jr. and other fans criticize the system for rewarding sporadic success.
- Statistics show Tyler Reddick and other top drivers completed the most laps yet missed the playoffs.
- NASCAR is considering changes for 2026 to balance drama with season-long consistency.
