Todd Gilliland captured the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series In‑Season Challenge, finishing the five‑event tournament with an average placement of 19.2.
His results — 29th, 16th, 19th, eighth and 24th — kept him ahead of rivals such as Ty Dillon, John Hunter Nemechek and Ryan Blaney, whose finishes were generally worse.
The scoring system rewards minimizing losses rather than maximizing gains, a nuance that has drawn criticism for favoring consistency over outright speed.
A tournament under scrutiny
NASCAR officials designed the tournament as a test of reliability, but many observers argue it feels more like a gimmick than a true measure of elite performance.
The competition unfolded across the United States, showcasing a mix of tracks that highlighted the series' diverse schedule.
Critics point out that a single poor finish can dramatically alter a driver's standing, making the competition feel precarious.
The In‑Season Challenge, held during the 2025 season, was intended to add excitement but has been labeled a gimmick by analysts who question its relevance to championship aspirations.
Despite the controversy, Gilliland's steady performances secured the title, underscoring the unpredictable nature of the format.