Ty Dillon and Denny Hamlin are set to renew their rivalry in the NASCAR In‑Season Challenge, a five‑race tournament that offers a $1 million prize to the ultimate winner.
Dillon, currently 31st in the championship standings, is coming off a surprise runner‑up finish last year and will be looking to replicate that performance.
Hamlin, who already boasts four victories this season, enters the event as the clear favorite, especially after his strong record at Sonoma.
The Sonoma Showdown
The tournament format pits 16 drivers against each other in head‑to‑head matchups, with the higher‑finishing competitor advancing after each round, adding a knockout‑style twist to the season.
Beyond the track, Dillon’s daughters have struck up a friendship with Hamlin’s daughters, turning the competition into a family affair.
Other pairings to watch include Brad Keselowski versus Austin Cindric and Ryan Blaney taking on Josh Berry, promising additional drama.
AJ Allmendinger will make his 500th Cup start at Sonoma, the track closest to his hometown, while Shane van Gisbergen is the favorite to win the race.
The stakes are high, with each round narrowing the field and pushing drivers to stay within striking distance until the final restart.