The NASCAR Cup Series heads to Homestead-Miami Speedway this Sunday for the 2026 season finale, where one driver will be crowned champion. After a long season filled with dramatic finishes, surprise winners and intense playoff battles, everything comes down to one final race.
The NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race is scheduled for Sunday, November 8, at 3 p.m. ET on NBC. Drivers will compete for 267 laps around the 1.5 mile Homestead track, covering 400.5 miles.
Kyle Larson Enters With the Championship Advantage
Kyle Larson enters the championship race as the clear favorite after building a 67-point advantage over Christopher Bell. The Hendrick Motorsports driver has been one of the strongest competitors throughout the season and is looking to capture his third championship in six seasons.
Larson has also enjoyed success at Homestead, winning the most recent Cup race at the track in March 2025. His ability to run multiple grooves and maintain speed near the wall could make him especially dangerous on Sunday.
However, Larson cannot afford to make major mistakes. A difficult afternoon could give his championship competitors an opportunity to make things interesting.
Bell and Hamlin Still Have a Chance
Christopher Bell enters the finale 67 points behind Larson, while Denny Hamlin sits 70 points back. Both drivers will need an incredible performance and some help if they want to take the championship away from Larson.
Bell has already proven he can win at Homestead, capturing the victory in 2023. Hamlin also has plenty of experience at the track, with three career victories there.
Both drivers will need to focus on winning while hoping Larson experiences trouble.
Homestead Could Deliver an Exciting Finale
Homestead is known for its unique racing style, with multiple grooves allowing drivers to find different lines around the track. Tire management, handling and pit-road strategy will be extremely important over 267 laps.
Drivers such as Chase Briscoe, Tyler Reddick and William Byron could also be in position to challenge for the race victory.
One Last Race for the Championship
Larson has the advantage, but nothing is guaranteed until the checkered flag waves. With Bell and Hamlin still mathematically alive, NASCAR fans have plenty of reasons to watch Sunday’s finale.
One driver will leave Homestead as the 2026 Cup Series champion.