NASCAR Playoffs Cut Four Drivers, Advance 12 to Round of 12

The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series playoffs have advanced to the Round of 12 after the Round of 16 concluded with a sweep of wins by Joe Gibbs Racing drivers Chase Briscoe, Denny Hamlin, and Christopher Bell, the latter securing his spot with a dramatic victory at the Bristol Night Race despite significant tire wear and a last-lap bump from Brad Keselowski. Four drivers—Alex Bowman, Austin Dillon, Shane van Gisbergen, and Josh Berry—were eliminated in the first playoff round, with Berry suffering from a wheel fire during the Bristol race. The Round of 12 promises tighter competition, with drivers close in points and a mix of race winners and high point scorers advancing, including notable names like Kyle Larson, William Byron, and Ryan Blaney. The playoffs continue with the next race at New Hampshire, where Joe Gibbs Racing aims to maintain its dominance, having won three straight races there recently, and the field will narrow further after the Charlotte Roval event. Tire issues, particularly at Bristol, caused chaos, impacting several drivers and influencing the elimination outcomes. The championship will be decided in a final match race among the last four drivers at Phoenix Raceway.