NASCAR’s final push at New Hampshire
Sunday’s Dollar Tree 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway marks the penultimate event of the NASCAR Cup Series regular season, a 25th of 26 race that sets the stage for the championship chase.
Tyler Reddick, piloting a Toyota, posted a qualifying speed of 131.094 mph, a modest improvement that comes after a summer slump that saw him struggle to find grip. Beside him, Josh Berry in a Ford recorded a speed of 131.026 mph, riding the momentum of a recent strong stretch despite a season that has been marred by inconsistency.
The qualifying session also highlighted the competitive nature of the postseason bubble, with Shane van Gisbergen leading the points table at 567, while Ryan Preece sits close behind at 517. Both drivers are among the 16 contenders vying for the final spots in the Chase, a group that also includes veteran Denny Hamlin.
With two races remaining — the iconic Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona and the season‑ending event at Phoenix — the points gaps could shift dramatically. Teams are aware that a single strong performance could swing the momentum, making the upcoming New Hampshire race more than just a qualifying exercise.
Fans will watch closely as the lineup features a mix of seasoned veterans and rising talent, including the No. 45 Toyota of Reddick, the No. 21 Ford of Berry, the No. 11 Chevrolet of Hamlin, and the No. 97 Chevrolet of van Gisbergen. The outcome will likely influence not only the Chase lineup but also the narrative heading into the final stretch of the season.
The stakes are high
The championship chase adds a layer of urgency, as every stage point and stage win can alter the mathematical possibilities for the remaining contenders.