The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs field was finalized on Sunday at Darlington Raceway during the Cook Out Southern 500, capping off a dramatic regular-season finale. With thirteen of the sixteen playoff spots already clinched heading into the race, the final three positions were the subject of intense competition. Chase Briscoe, Martin Truex Jr., and Ty Gibbs emerged victorious in their quest to secure the last playoff berths, adding an extra layer of excitement to the postseason lineup.
The Final Showdown at Darlington
As the green flag waved for the Cook Out Southern 500, the stakes were high for those still vying for a spot in the playoffs. The regular-season finale provided an exhilarating finish, with Briscoe’s No. 14 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford taking the checkered flag. His victory not only earned him the win but also clinched his place in the playoffs. Briscoe’s performance secured him a spot in the Round of 16, further solidifying the playoff field.
Playoff Spots Clinched
With Briscoe’s victory, the remaining two playoff spots were filled by Martin Truex Jr. and Ty Gibbs. Truex, driving the No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota, and Gibbs, in the No. 54 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota, both managed to secure their positions despite the fierce competition. Truex and Gibbs entered the race with points deficits of minus-144 and plus-39, respectively, but their strong performances were enough to propel them into the postseason.
Official Round of 16
Here is the official list of drivers who will be competing in the Round of 16, with their seeding based on points accumulated throughout the regular season:
- Kyle Larson, No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet – 2,040 points
- Christopher Bell, No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota – 2,032 points
- Tyler Reddick, No. 45 23XI Racing Toyota – 2,028 points
- William Byron, No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet – 2,022 points
- Ryan Blaney, No. 12 Team Penske Ford – 2,018 points
- Denny Hamlin, No. 11 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota – 2,015 points
- Chase Elliott, No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet – 2,014 points
- Brad Keselowski, No. 6 RFK Racing Ford – 2,008 points
- Joey Logano, No. 22 Team Penske Ford – 2,007 points
- Austin Cindric, No. 2 Team Penske Ford – 2,007 points
- Daniel Suárez, No. 99 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet – 2,006 points
- Alex Bowman, No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet – 2,005 points
- Chase Briscoe, No. 14 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford – 2,005 points
- Harrison Burton, No. 21 Wood Brothers Racing Ford – 2,005 points
- Ty Gibbs, No. 54 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota – 2,004 points
- Martin Truex Jr., No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota – 2,004 points
Looking Ahead
With the playoff field set, attention now turns to the excitement of the postseason. The Round of 16 will feature a mix of experienced contenders and emerging stars, all vying for the ultimate prize in NASCAR. As the drivers prepare for the next stage of the competition, fans can expect thrilling races and high-stakes drama as the championship chase heats up.
The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs promise to deliver unforgettable moments and intense racing as these top drivers battle it out for the coveted championship title.