Final NASCAR top-10 driver rankings of 2026: Kyle Larson or Denny Hamlin, of courseKen Willis, Daytona Beach News-JournalWed, November 11, 2026 at 10:02 AM UTC
Here we are, already. It was just nine shorts months ago when we were unveiling our preseason top-10 NASCAR drivers list, and just like that, here's the last one for 2026.
It's always an internal debate. Should we base this ranking on the entire season's work? Or, like each week's offering during the season, should it also lean heavily on recent results?
Don't noodle that one. There's no right or wrong answer. It's a loosely constructed balance of the two, and this season was particularly challenging for those seeking a balanced approach.
Tyler Reddick didn't just dominate the early part of the year, he owned it. He won the first three races and five of the first nine. By late spring and into early summer, Denny Hamlin took over, winning four times in a five-week span (including the All-Star Race).
Victory Lane became a group project for the remainder of the regular season, with Joey Logano suddenly raising his hand (and steering wheel) to say, "Hey, don't forget about me!"
But then came the postseason Chase, when Kyle Larson and his No. 5 Hendrick team finally flipped a switch and ignited a run of greatness (three wins) combined with consistency (eight top-10s, seven finishes of sixth or better). The result was his third championship.
And now this ...
1. Kyle Larson
The No. 5 team found the secret sauce once the Chase arrived. Will others uncover their recipe?
2. Denny Hamlin
Denny's 22nd annual title hunt slated to begin in February.
3. Ryan Blaney
Too many clankers near the end, but overall another good season.
4. Tyler Reddick
Got it back together a bit after that big midseason slump.
5. Chase Briscoe
Last three weeks spoiled a good mood, but he was still Top Chase for 2026.
6. Christopher Bell
His win total (one) was the lowest since 2021.
7. Joey Logano
Perennial contender will tee it up among the favorites again in three months.
8. William Byron
Returned to form late in the year but not quite like one of his Hendrick teammates.
9. Ty Gibbs
A kinda-sorta breakthrough year for this guy.
10. Chase Elliott
He snagged a couple wins, but yet again, there were way too many meh weeks.
Email Ken Willis at ken.willis@news-jrnl.com
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Final NASCAR top-10 driver rankings of 2026: Kyle Larson or Denny Hamlin, of course
Source: Sports
