The NASCAR Cup Series playoffs are approaching quickly, and following last weekend’s race at Watkins Glen International, the competition for playoff spots has intensified significantly. With only a few races left in the regular season, every stage point and position counts as drivers battle to secure their place in the postseason and keep their championship dreams alive.
Here is the latest NASCAR Cup playoff ranking heading into the Cookout 400 this weekend:
1. Denny Hamlin (4 wins)*
2. Shane Van Gisbergen (4 wins)*
3. Kyle Larson (3 wins)*
4. Christopher Bell (3 wins)*
5. William Byron (2 wins)
6. Chase Elliott (win)
7. Chase Briscoe (win)
8. Ryan Blaney (win)
9. Bubba Wallace (victory)
10. Joey Logano (win)
11. Ross Chastain (win)
12. Austin Cindric (win)
13. Josh Berry (win)
14. Tyler Reddick (+117 points)
15. Alex Bowman (+60 points)
16. Chris Buescher (+34 points)
The top 16 drivers will advance to the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. For those outside the top 16, the fight is on to earn a spot. Winning a race guarantees a berth in the playoffs, except in cases where there are more winners than available spots. The playoff lineup prioritizes race winners and then fills remaining slots according to points standings.
Currently, there are 13 race winners and the regular-season champion is likely among those winners. Therefore, unless there are several new winners or a significant points shakeup, all current race winners will secure a postseason spot.
Fan Take: This playoff battle heightens the drama and showcases just how competitive NASCAR has become this season. For fans, it means thrilling races ahead as drivers push hard to qualify, making every race critical and keeping the chase for the championship unpredictable.
