Denny Hamlin earns pole for NASCAR's Championship Race

(Photo credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images)

AVONDALE, Ariz. -- Joe Gibbs Racing veteran Denny Hamlin issued a strong statement for his 2025 championship intentions Saturday afternoon by claiming pole position for the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race.

Two of the other three championship-eligible drivers -- Hendrick Motorsports teammates William Byron and Kyle Larson -- claimed the other top three positio