Eighteen drivers eliminated from NASCAR championship contention after Talladega
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 28, 2026, 9:19 PM
Last updated Oct 28, 2026

Eighteen drivers across NASCAR's three national series have been eliminated from championship contention following the recent action at Talladega Superspeedway. Nine drivers from the Cup Series, five from the Truck Series, and four from the O'Reilly Series are now out of the running. Key eliminations include notable names like William Byron and Chase Elliott from the Cup Series, where Kyle Larson's victory significantly altered the standings. The remaining drivers focus on upcoming races at Martinsville and beyond, with Larson positioned to clinch his third Cup Series title. The eliminations reflect a shifting competitive as the playoffs progress.
- •NASCAR playoffs see eighteen drivers eliminated from championship contention.
- •Kyle Larson's victory at Talladega significantly shifted championship standings.
- •William Byron and Chase Elliott are among the notable Cup Series drivers eliminated.
- •Five drivers are eliminated from the Truck Series, increasing competition.
- •The focus now turns to Martinsville for the remaining playoff contenders.
- 9:19 PMYahoo Sports — NASCAR CHAMPIONSHIP HOPES JUST GOT DESTROYED! 18 DRIVERS ELIMINATED ACROSS ALL THREE SERIES!
"The NASCAR playoffs have officially turned into a nightmare for several drivers, and the latest championship eliminations have left some of the sport’s biggest names with absolutely no chance of lifting the trophy this season. Following a wild weekend at Talladega Superspeedway, nine Cup Series drivers, five Truck Series drivers and four O’Reilly Series drivers…
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