Get ready for a heart-pounding showdown—the NASCAR Cup Series South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway is here, and it’s more than just a race; it’s the first battle in the high-stakes Round of 8 Playoffs. But here’s where it gets intense: only the top four drivers will advance to the Championship 4, and Sunday’s race could lock in the first contender for the Bill France Cup. Will it be a repeat victory for defending champion Joey Logano, or will someone new seize the opportunity? Tune in at 5:30 PM ET on USA Network or stream it via HBO Max to catch every thrilling moment.
This isn’t just another race—it’s a fight for survival. Eight drivers are on the edge, knowing that one misstep could cost them their championship dreams. And this is the part most people miss: the pressure isn’t just on the track; it’s in the strategy, the teamwork, and the sheer will to outlast the competition. With a staggering $9,797,935 purse up for grabs, every lap counts.
Controversial question: Is Denny Hamlin’s pole position a sign of dominance, or is he setting himself up for a dramatic fall? Hamlin, the No. 1 seed, secured the pole with a blistering 184.849 mph lap, but he’s openly admitted Las Vegas hasn’t always been kind to him. His teammates Chase Briscoe and Christopher Bell start second and third, giving Joe Gibbs Racing a commanding front row. But with only eight points separating Hamlin from the cutline, can he hold on?
The race itself is a grueling 267 laps around the 1.5-mile oval, totaling 400.5 miles. Split into three stages—ending at Laps 80, 165, and 267—this race is a test of endurance, strategy, and nerves. Here’s the kicker: if a playoff-eligible driver wins, they’re automatically in the Championship 4. No pressure, right?
Joey Logano, last year’s winner, knows the stakes all too well. His victory here in 2022 propelled him to his third NASCAR Cup Series championship. But this year, the competition is fiercer than ever. With drivers like Kyle Larson, Ryan Blaney, and William Byron breathing down his neck, Logano can’t afford a single mistake.
Bold prediction: This race could be a turning point for Chase Elliott or Christopher Bell, both sitting below the cutline. Will they rise to the occasion, or will they be left in the dust? And what about Bubba Wallace or Tyler Reddick—could an underdog steal the spotlight?
Stay tuned to our live updates page for pre-race insights, real-time updates, and highlights you won’t want to miss. From lead changes to jaw-dropping crashes, we’ve got you covered. But we want to hear from you: Who’s your pick to win the South Point 400? And do you think Hamlin can hold onto his pole position, or will Las Vegas claim another victim? Let us know in the comments—this is one race you won’t want to watch alone!
