This Sunday in Mexico City, NASCAR will introduce a new tradition by honoring the top three finishers on a podium, a first for any points-paying event in the sport’s history. With Kyle Larson, Denny Hamlin, and Christopher Bell currently tied for the most top-three finishes in the 2025 season, the spotlight is on who leads in NASCAR podium finishes this year.
Through the first 15 races, Larson, Hamlin, and Bell each have secured six top-three spots. Larson’s record includes three wins, one second-place finish, and two third-place finishes. Hamlin matches Larson’s three victories but has two second places and only one third-place finish so far, the same as Bell. Close behind them is William Byron, who has five top-three results this season.
Kyle Larson currently holds an advantage on the points leaderboard. After the recent race in Michigan, Larson of Hendrick Motorsports leads with 535 points, while Denny Hamlin has amassed 494 points. Ryan Blaney, winner at Nashville Superspeedway, ranks fifth among drivers with top-three finishes, earning one victory and two third-place results. Eleven races remain before the regular season concludes, leaving ample opportunity for the battle between Larson and Hamlin to intensify.
Introducing Podium Celebrations to NASCAR’s International Ventures
NASCAR has traditionally not celebrated the second and third-place finishers with a podium presentation, except for one occasion during the Clash event at the L.A. Coliseum. However, this change in Mexico City marks a significant shift for NASCAR, which is adapting to a global audience. The format aligns more closely with international racing series such as Formula One, where top finishers routinely receive podium honors and medals.
While NASCAR has not yet confirmed if podium ceremonies will become a feature in its domestic races, this move highlights a growing recognition of the achievements of those finishing just behind the winner. Awarding gold, silver, and bronze medals to top three competitors could add a meaningful layer of recognition, encouraging fans and drivers alike to appreciate podium finishes beyond just the victor.
With this new tradition debuting abroad, the competition among Larson, Hamlin, and Bell to step onto the podium grows even more intense this weekend. Their performances in Mexico may set the tone for the remainder of the NASCAR 2025 season as drivers vie not only for wins but also for consistent top-three results.
