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Kyle Larson celebrates victory at Sonoma Raceway
Kyle Larson used his Xfinity Fastest Lap awards to gain a crucial advantage in the NASCAR season, helping him secure the top seed for the upcoming playoffs. The bonus points, earned for setting the fastest lap in multiple races, propelled Larson up the regular season standings and gave him extra playoff points that proved decisive.
These points allowed him to edge out competitors like Chase Elliott and claim a strategic advantage as the playoffs begin.
Larson’s ability to earn fastest lap points came in challenging conditions. At Watkins Glen, he overcame brake issues and an early spin to set the fastest lap, earning a key bonus point despite finishing lower in the pack. Similarly, in Mexico City, Larson rebounded from an early crash to set the fastest lap again.
These moments demonstrated his skill, determination, and understanding of how bonus points can influence both playoff seeding and championship prospects.
Larson Tops William Byron for NASCAR Playoff No. 1 Seed
The playoff picture became even more dramatic as Kyle Larson and Hendrick Motorsports teammate William Byron finished the regular season tied in points at 2,035. Byron recorded 26 starts with two wins, while Larson matched the starts but earned three wins. Thanks to the Xfinity Fastest Lap bonus system introduced in 2025, Larson gained the upper hand and secured the No. 1 seed for the playoffs.
“Despite winning the regular season championship, William Byron will not enter the NASCAR Cup playoffs as the top seed following the points reset. That honor will instead go to his Hendrick Motorsports teammate, Kyle Larson,” reported Nick DeGroot of Motorsport.
DeGroot added, “The two drivers are tied at 2,032 points apiece, and since Larson has more wins, three to Byron’s two, he gets placed atop the standings for the start of the Round of 16.”
Larson’s extra fastest lap points ultimately made the difference, highlighting how even small bonuses can shape playoff dynamics.
Larson Among 11 Cup Drivers to Score ‘Xfinity Fastest Lap’ Bonus
Larson is part of a select group of eleven Cup drivers who claimed the Xfinity Fastest Lap bonus this season. Denny Hamlin leads the series with six fastest laps, though his efforts did not change his final points standing after Daytona. Several other drivers also collected multiple bonus points, including Michael McDowell and A.J. Allmendinger with three each, and Tyler Reddick, Bubba Wallace, and William Byron with two apiece.
The new fastest lap bonus system has quickly become a key factor in shaping the playoff field. Drivers are now rewarded not only for finishing position but also for speed and consistency, adding a fresh layer of strategy to NASCAR races.
For Larson, maximizing these bonus points gave him a critical edge, demonstrating that smart racing isn’t just about crossing the finish line first; it’s about making every lap count.
As the NASCAR Cup playoffs approach, Larson enters the Round of 16 with momentum and a clear advantage over his competitors. His combination of wins, consistency, and bonus points shows how adapting to new rules can shape the championship fight.
Dogli Wilberforce Dogli Wilberforce is a sports writer covering football, basketball, MMA, and other trending sports stories for outlets including Total Apex Sports, and Last Word on Sports. He has built a reputation for delivering timely, engaging coverage that blends sharp analysis with accessible storytelling. Wilberforce has covered everything from major football transfers to fight-night drama, bringing readers the insight and context behind the headlines. More about Dogli Wilberforce
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