Tyler Reddick claims historic fifth NASCAR Cup Series win at Kansas
Tyler Reddick has become the first driver since Dale Earnhardt in 1987 to win five of the opening nine NASCAR Cup Series races after a thrilling overtime victory at Kansas Speedway.
The pole-sitter surged past Kyle Larson on the final lap to claim an extraordinary win following a late caution flag.
Chase Briscoe finished third, while 23XI Racing co-owner Denny Hamlin took fourth after leading prior to the late disruption.
Late drama sets up grandstand finish
The 267-lap contest had been entirely caution-free outside of mandatory stage breaks until Cody Ware spun out in the closing moments.
Hamlin had looked poised to take the chequered flag before the yellow flag flew just as the leaders were approaching the final circuit.
The subsequent pit stops saw the veteran narrowly beat his own driver back onto the track, choosing the inside line for the crucial restart.
Larson immediately dived low to snatch the lead as chaos erupted behind the front pair, with Christopher Bell making contact with both Hamlin and the eventual winner.
A historic milestone for 23XI Racing
As Larson appeared destined to end a 32-race victory drought, the No. 45 Toyota mounted a massive charge down the back straight.
The two frontrunners ran side-by-side out of the final corner before the 23XI Racing star edged ahead to cross the finish line.
“Just really blessed with the late caution. How about that. Was that nuts or what? I couldn’t believe it.”
Tyler Reddick
The dramatic result sparked wild celebrations on the pit wall, with NBA legend Michael Jordan pumping his fist as his driver took the chequered flag.
“This kid is on fire. I don’t know what to say. I don’t think I can cool him down. Me being here and being able to see all the wins, I am so happy for the team.”
Michael Jordan, 23XI Racing co-owner
Toyota dominance continues
The defending Kansas race winner, Larson, admitted he thought he could cruise to the finish line before ultimately settling for his third podium of the current campaign.
Bubba Wallace secured fifth place, meaning three of the top five finishers belonged to the impressive 23XI Racing stable.
The latest triumph means Toyota has now won seven of the first nine races this season, becoming the first manufacturer to achieve that feat since Chevrolet in 2007.
The NASCAR Cup Series next travels to Talladega Superspeedway for the tenth round of the calendar.
