The NASCAR Cup Series playoff picture has taken a significant turn following Shane van Gisbergen’s dominant win in Mexico City. However, the circuit shifts to Pocono Raceway this weekend, and it’s unclear if another first-time winner will emerge.
A closer look at the track reveals that drivers ranked sixth or better in the playoff standings have dominated the last 11 races in Long Pond, Pennsylvania. Denny Hamlin, the winningest Cup driver in Pocono’s history, is set to return after missing the inaugural event due to the birth of his son. He will be one of the favorites to win this weekend.
William Byron, a two-time Daytona 500 winner, also seeks a second victory this season. The No. 24 driver has been strong in earning and maintaining track position throughout the year, which could make him a threat at Pocono. However, he has struggled at the “Tricky Triangle,” with just one top-10 finish in his last four races.
Other drivers to watch include Tyler Reddick, who is still seeking his first win of 2025, and Chase Elliott, who owns consecutive top-10s in the last three races at Pocono. Erik Jones has also been impressive at the track, finishing top 10 in eight of his 13 starts. Bubba Wallace comes into this weekend on a high note after recent top-10 finishes.
Racing Insights’ advanced statistical formula predicts Denny Hamlin as the favorite to win this weekend’s Great American Getaway 400. The projections also list William Byron as the second-place finisher, with Tyler Reddick and Kyle Larson rounding out the top five spots.
Source: https://www.nascar.com/news-media/2025/06/22/racing-insights-expect-a-repeat-winner-at-pocono