NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs: Bristol Set for First Elimination Race
The NASCAR Cup Series heads to Bristol Motor Speedway for the first elimination race of the postseason, reducing the field from 16 to 12 drivers. Current standings indicate that Austin Dillon, Shane van Gisbergen, Alex Bowman, and Josh Berry face significant challenges; none have secured a win at this iconic track.
Denny Hamlin and Chase Briscoe have already advanced to the next round, each securing victories in the initial playoff races. Kyle Larson stands as the highest-ranked driver on the playoff grid without a win, holding a +60 point margin above the cutline.
Current Cup Series Playoff Standings
- Denny Hamlin: ADV
- Chase Briscoe: ADV
- Kyle Larson: +60
- Bubba Wallace: +50
- Ryan Blaney: +42
- William Byron: +39
- Tyler Reddick: +37
- Christopher Bell: +32
- Chase Elliott: +28
- Joey Logano: +21
- Ross Chastain: +19
- Austin Cindric: +11
- Austin Dillon: -11
- Shane van Gisbergen: -15
- Alex Bowman: -35
- Josh Berry: -45
Driver Insights
Austin Dillon expressed frustration over his team’s performance, stating, “We just missed it…hard work and execution gave us a shot at Bristol.”
Shane van Gisbergen reflected on his struggles, noting, “We weren’t amazing… a little frustrating, but it’s kind of where we’re at.”
Alex Bowman criticized their performance sharply, saying, “We’re just not doing anything right at all… it’s kind of dumb.”
Josh Berry lamented circumstances, stating, “We’ve had decent cars; we’ve just had issues,” attributing recent challenges to chaotic race dynamics.
As the Cup Series approaches Bristol, the stakes are high, and the pressure is palpable for those outside the playoff cutoff.
