Christopher Bell claimed his 10th Cup Series win in a dramatic finish at the Atlanta Motor Speedway, despite facing criticism over last-lap cautions. The No. 20 Toyota driver led only once during the race but held off Carson Hocevar to secure victory.
Bell expressed his excitement about restarting on the first row and praised his team for fixing their issues, saying they were able to “hold our foot down” in the final half of the race. Despite struggling with this style of racing, Bell’s focus paid off as he pushed Kyle Larson past Austin Cindric and into the wall.
A caution made the field three-wide, but just before the white flag flew, Hocevar sent Larson up the middle, creating an opportunity for Bell to pass him. However, a crash down the back forced a final yellow, ending the race early. The officials declared Bell the winner, with Hocevar claiming second place and Larson third.
The recent debate over last-lap cautions has led NASCAR to reconsider their approach, following criticism of earlier incidents. This was seen in Saturday’s Xfinity Series finish, where the field continued racing despite a massive accident scene.
Bell’s win moves him closer to the top of the Cup Series standings, while Hocevar secured his first career podium. The result marked an emotional conclusion to the NASCAR Cup Series event at Atlanta.
Source: https://www.motorsport.com/nascar-cup/news/frantic-finish-ends-under-caution-as-bell-beats-hocevar-and-larson/10697977