Ross Chastain attempted a bold NASCAR move during the final lap of the Bank of America Roval 400 at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Sunday, hoping to secure his spot in the playoffs. With Joey Logano occupying the provisional transfer position, Chastain needed to overtake Denny Hamlin in the final corner to advance to the next round. However, Chastain faced the challenge of having significantly older tires compared to Hamlin, making a clean pass nearly impossible.
Chastain’s high-risk strategy and its unexpected outcome
In response, Chastain pushed his No. 1 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet as aggressively as possible through the frontstretch chicane, attempting a move that mirrored his daring wall-ride years ago at Martinsville Speedway. Rather than clearing Hamlin or pushing him out, Chastain’s maneuver resulted in both drivers spinning out. Chastain ended up crossing the finish line backwards, finishing 21st and failing to advance to the Round of 8.
Another look at the finish at the @CLTMotorSpdwy ROVAL. #NASCARPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/1unkICDFvk
— NASCAR (@NASCAR)
Playoff implications and future championship prospects
Joey Logano advanced to the penultimate round of the postseason and will have the opportunity to defend his 2024 title. A three-time Cup Series champion, Logano is now positioned to potentially tie Jeff Gordon’s record of four championships if he wins the 2025 title. This turn of events highlights the fine margins in NASCAR postseason racing, where aggressive moves can either propel drivers forward or abruptly end their championship bids.
Another look at the finish at the @CLTMotorSpdwy ROVAL. #NASCARPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/1unkICDFvk
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) October 5, 2025
