Denny Hamlin Wins Stage, Loses NASCAR Championship

Denny Hamlin secured third place in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season standings, leading over 1,000 laps, despite not claiming the championship. The 45-year-old driver finished sixth at Homestead-Miami Speedway, having won four races and never suffered a crash or mechanical failure. Kyle Larson emerged as the champion, marking his third title, while Hamlin's closest competitor was teammate Christopher Bell.

Hamlin's last-minute move to overtake Larson resulted in a collision with the wall, costing him valuable positions and clinching Larson's victory. Despite missing the championship, Hamlin expressed pride in his team's efforts, highlighting consistent performance throughout the season. Larson's triumph solidified his place among NASCAR legends, joining the ranks of Tony Stewart, Joey Logano, Cale Yarborough, Richard Petty, and Jimmie Johnson. Hendrick Motorsports claimed their 16th title, the most of any team in the sport.