Byron Dominates Martinsville, Advances to Championship 4

William Byron dominated the Martinsville elimination race, leading 304 of 500 laps to beat Ryan Blaney, secure a Championship 4 berth and end Team Penske’s bid for a fourth straight Cup title. Blaney rallied from 31st to mount a late challenge and his comeback was widely praised despite finishing second. Kyle Larson also advanced to the Championship 4 while Christopher Bell was bumped out of contention; Denny Hamlin and Chase Briscoe had already locked their spots. NASCAR said it arrived determined to prevent a repeat of last year’s manipulation scandal, implementing tougher penalties and stepped-up officiating with increased monitoring of radio communications and warning that enforcement would be on high alert as drivers faced must-win pressure.