NASCAR’s playoff era ends with dramatic finale as fans call for change - Speedway Digest - Home for NASCAR News

NASCAR’s Playoff Era Concludes with Controversial Phoenix Finale

The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Championship race at Phoenix Raceway marked the conclusion of the sport’s decade-long playoff format. Ryan Blaney won the race, but Kyle Larson secured the season championship, sparking renewed debates about the playoff system’s fairness.

The Playoff Format History and Structure

Introduced in 2014, the playoff system featured a 16-driver elimination bracket, ending with a winner-take-all race among four finalists. This structure increased late-season excitement and viewership but faced criticism for emphasizing short-term success over consistent performance throughout the season.

Controversies in the 2025 Finale

The final race showcased the format’s unpredictability. Denny Hamlin, the season leader in wins who dominated the championship event, lost the title due to a late caution and a pit strategy shuffle.

Fan Reactions and Calls for Change

Following the race, fans expressed their frustrations across social media and forums. Many criticized the system's randomness and demanded a return to a traditional points-based championship format.

"The outcome reignited long-standing debates about the fairness and integrity of the system."

— Speedway Digest Staff, November 4, 2025

Author's summary: The 2025 NASCAR finale ended the controversial playoff era amid fan outcry demanding a shift back to a consistent points system over the dramatic elimination format.

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Speedway Digest Speedway Digest — 2025-11-05

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