Two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch shared his outlook on qualifying for the 2025 NASCAR playoffs amid a challenging season. Currently positioned 19th in the Cup Series standings and 20th in the playoff chase, Busch is 63 points behind the cutoff, making his push toward the postseason increasingly difficult.
With no Cup Series victories since 2023, Busch knows a win would automatically secure his playoff spot. However, he believes accumulating enough points could be a feasible alternative if no additional race winners emerge this season. Eleven of the 16 playoff positions have already been clinched by different race winners in the current campaign, leaving five spots still available based on points — though this number may shrink should new winners claim races during the remaining nine events of the regular season.
Busch highlights how new winners affect playoff strategy
Busch emphasized the importance of whether any new winners arise before the playoffs begin, as it could decisively affect those hoping to qualify through points alone. He described the situation as “doable” if no further winners appear, but warned that the emergence of new victors would turn the battle into a must-win scenario for many drivers.
I would say if you find another winner outside, then I would say you’re in a must-win [situation],
Busch said Friday, according to NBC Sports.
He also noted the significance of picking up stage points, which has been a key weakness for his team so far this year, hindering their position in the standings.
If we could have a big points day like COTA…COTA-type days for the next eight weeks would put you right back in the thick of things, and we’d be fine, especially if others have issues.
Busch takes accountability for recent performances and eyes key tracks
When asked whether his car and team have the potential to deliver strong results moving forward, Busch took full responsibility for a recent underwhelming performance in Mexico, acknowledging the need for improvement.
Mexico’s on me, so I take full accountability for that one.
He also reflected on struggles at Pocono, explaining that starting on softer tires and failing to capitalize over the weekend impacted their performance.
Looking ahead, Busch expressed optimism about certain upcoming tracks where he believes strong finishes are possible. He mentioned Sonoma and Indianapolis as favorable venues based on past speed and results.
Sonoma’s been a good track for us, we’ve been fast there, Indy we were fast there last year, we had a really good shot to finish inside the top three, so I would say there’s some places that we can do it.
Busch is scheduled to start Saturday’s Quaker State 400 from 29th position, aiming to improve his standing with a competitive showing.
Playoff implications and outlook for the remainder of the season
The 2025 NASCAR playoffs field is beginning to take shape, with several drivers securing their spots through race wins. Kyle Busch’s focus now turns to maximizing stage points and achieving strong race finishes to either point his way into the postseason or secure a much-needed victory. The entrance of new winners in the final stretch would raise the stakes, potentially forcing Busch and others outside the locked-in spots into do-or-die scenarios.
How Busch performs on tracks like Sonoma, Indianapolis, and the Quaker State 400 will be pivotal as the regular season closes. His ability to capitalize on these opportunities could determine whether his playoff berth remains “doable” or shifts into an urgent must-win fight.
