Denny Hamlin entered the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race at Phoenix Raceway as the most dominant contender. He secured the pole and led a race-high 208 laps as the checkered flag approached. But a caution on Lap 309 changed everything. With fewer than five laps remaining in regulation, his team opted for a four-tire pit stop while rivals chose fewer tires or stayed out.

Hamlin emerged deep in the field and ultimately crossed the line sixth, agonizingly close and yet so far from the title he chased so hard despite delivering a championship-caliber performance all day. The twist of strategy and timing robbed him of the final step, leaving fans and analysts to reflect on yet another near-miss in a career that badly wants the one trophy that still eludes him. But as many lose hope,

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