NASCAR Predictions: Picks for Who Wins Final 5 Races in The Chase, Cup Series Champion

As the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series enters the final stretch, it's time for predictions on who will emerge victorious in the last five races during The Chase. Bank of America 400 (Charlotte) on October 4th sees Denny Hamlin, currently 40 points behind Kyle Larson, fighting for redemption. After securing the pole at Las Vegas, Hamlin is expected to use his momentum to secure a win and close the gap, earning over 70 points.

The next crucial race is the Freeway Insurance 500 (Phoenix) on March 8th, where Ryan Blaney, trailing by more than 80 points, must win to erase his deficit. Blaney has won consecutive races here, including a fall race overshadowed by the championship, with 74 out of 75 stage points. A victory at Phoenix will narrow his deficit significantly in The Chase.

Talladega's YellaWood 500 on September 27th could be the stage for another Carson Hocevar victory. Spire Motorsports have made it clear that points are secondary, and Hocevar's goal is simply to win again, potentially tying him with Corey Heim's two Cup Series wins in 2026. With aggressive driving, Hocevar may secure victory at Dega.

Joey Logano, despite not being expected to win The Chase this year, aims to turn heads at Martinsville. After a close finish at Phoenix, Logano, in his home track, seeks to finally make it to victory lane, as he has not done so since 2018. His win at Martinsville, held on March 29th, would be the first of his career, capping off the season with 75 points and potentially securing him the 2026 Cup Series championship.