Hamlin’s 60th, 750-HP Reality Check, and Why Vegas Should Host the Finale

NASCAR playoffs momentum, Denny Hamlin’s 60th win at Las Vegas, IMSA’s sellout finale at Road Atlanta, F1 at COTA, and key IndyCar and NASCAR Canada updates—plus a reality check on the 750-hp Cup package. This week’s Speed Chronicles zeroes in on results that matter and the storylines behind them. Denny Hamlin’s Las Vegas victory marks career win number 60 and locks him into the Championship 4. Todd argues the Kansas move on Bubba Wallace was about racing for the win, not controversy, and points to Hamlin’s emotion and resilience amid an ongoing NASCAR lawsuit narrative. Could Las Vegas host the season finale? Todd makes the case: big city, show business atmosphere, awards-week convenience—cool desert nights aside. On rules, Steve O’Donnell’s note about raising Cup cars to ~750 horsepower is welcome, but it won’t fix every short-track and aero issue by itself. Todd also shares why Dale Jr.’s broadcaster role works for NASCAR while rarely being sharply critical. IMSA’s Road Atlanta weekend delivered packed crowds and great racing across WeatherTech, Michelin Pilot, and MX-5 Cup. Early schedule releases and full fields keep momentum high. F1 heads to COTA with Austin’s unique track character and festival vibe. On IndyCar, Renus VeeKay to Juncos Hollinger is confirmed; Devlin DeFrancesco’s multi-year deal coexists with team interest in Mick Schumacher after a strong test. Looking ahead, NASCAR goes to Talladega and TV will lean into “big one” talk, but Todd calls for more focus on the racing itself. In Canada, Calabogie will be repaved for 2026 with NASCAR Canada slated to return, and discussions continue with the Ontario Honda Dealers and Indy Markham. Like, comment, and subscribe to catch Speed Chronicles every Wednesday. Share your take: Is 750 hp enough, and should Vegas host the finale?