Tyler Reddick has been the sole winner of the first three NASCAR Cup Series races of 2026, capturing victories at Daytona International Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway’s EchoPark Speedway, and Circuit of the Americas. This unprecedented dominance has extended a streak in which multiple winners appeared in each of the first three events, but a shift is expected at the upcoming race in Phoenix, where several strong contenders look ready to challenge Reddick’s early success.
Despite Reddick’s current streak, his wins at Daytona and Atlanta came before he had ever won at those tracks, and his recent Circuit of the Americas triumph was on a different track layout than the one used in 2026, highlighting his ability to break new ground. For the Straight Talk Wireless 500 at Phoenix Raceway, Reddick is the sixth favorite according to DraftKings Sportsbook, with odds of +1100. Meanwhile, a group of drivers with strong histories at Phoenix enter the race with better odds, ranging from +550 to +750, reflecting their likelihood of ending Reddick’s NASCAR dominance in the early season.
Top Contenders with a Record of Success at Phoenix Raceway
Five drivers stand out as the most probable winners in the Arizona desert, each bringing a combination of recent form and familiarity with the track to the competition.
Tied for First: Ryan Blaney (Team Penske) – Odds +550
Ryan Blaney’s breakthrough win at Phoenix in the 2025 season finale marked his first at the venue, surprising many given his championship contention there in both 2023 and 2024. Now freed from that burden, Blaney is expected to be a strong contender once again, demonstrating the skill and persistence that have made him a threat at one of NASCAR’s most challenging surfaces.
Tied for First: Denny Hamlin (Joe Gibbs Racing) – Odds +550
Denny Hamlin dominated Phoenix in November’s race and enters this weekend seeking redemption after a difficult start to the 2026 season. Known as one of the best drivers on this stretch of track, Hamlin’s motivation to rebound is high as he aims to return to victory lane and improve upon a track record including recent victories and competitive performances.
Tied for Third: Kyle Larson (Hendrick Motorsports) – Odds +650
Kyle Larson is a consistent favorite at oval tracks, and Phoenix is no exception. Although he captured the championship at Phoenix in 2025 without leading a lap, Larson’s recent results show he has yet to claim victory at this venue during the Next Gen era. His lack of wins since May 2025 contrasts with the strong expectations he nevertheless draws as a perennial contender.
Tied for Third: Christopher Bell (Joe Gibbs Racing) – Odds +650
Christopher Bell has had remarkable success at the Phoenix March race, winning consecutive events in 2024 and 2025 after securing strong stage performances despite starting outside the top 10. His proven ability to climb through the field and finish first places him among the favorites poised to challenge for the win once more.
Fifth: William Byron (Hendrick Motorsports) – Odds +750
William Byron, the other recent March winner at Phoenix besides Bell, shows consistent stage-winning performance with points scored in 21 consecutive stages at the track since 2020. Despite a setback last season caused by a flat tire that triggered a caution, Byron is ready to make amends and capitalize on his strong track record of success and endurance.
Looking Ahead to the Race at Phoenix Raceway
The Arizona race presents an opportunity for multiple drivers to disrupt Tyler Reddick’s early season dominance in NASCAR. With five top contenders poised to challenge on a track that has seen significant championship battles, the outcome will have considerable implications for momentum heading into the heart of the season. Fans can watch the Straight Talk Wireless 500 live on Fox Sports 1 this Sunday, March 8, at 3:30 p.m. ET, followed by continuing coverage across various platforms.
