One week prior, the NASCAR playoffs commenced with the iconic Southern 500 at Darlington, which opened the race for the 2025 Cup Series championship. Chase Briscoe won his second straight Southern 500, making him the first driver to reach the Round of 12. Now, the focus shifts to World Wide Technology Raceway in St. Louis, which is hosting a playoff race for the first time during the Enjoy Illinois 300.

The unique 1.25-mile flat oval track will host its second race in the new playoff schedule as the Cup Series competes this fall. The previous races at Gateway featured three different winners, including Joey Logano and Austin Cindric, who are looking to secure their spots in the next round.

Where to watch the NASCAR playoffs at Gateway
When: Sunday, Sept. 7 at 3 p.m. ET
Where: World Wide Technology Raceway – Madison, Illinois
TV: USA | Stream: Fubo (Try for free)

Starting lineup

Denny Hamlin achieved the pole position for the Enjoy Illinois 300 with a lap time of 32.330 (139.190 MPH).

1. #11 - Denny Hamlin
2. #5 - Kyle Larson
3. #19 - Chase Briscoe
4. #1 - Ross Chastain
5. #12 - Ryan Blaney
6. #24 - William Byron
7. #45 - Tyler Reddick
8. #20 - Christopher Bell
9. #2 - Austin Cindric
10. #38 - Zane Smith
11. #17 - Chris Buescher
12. #21 - Josh Berry
13. #22 - Joey Logano
14. #23 - Bubba Wallace
15. #3 - Austin Dillon
16. #43 - Erik Jones
17. #16 - A.J. Allmendinger
18. #88 - Shane van Gisbergen (R)
19. #9 - Chase Elliott
20. #42 - John Hunter Nemechek
21. #54 - Ty Gibbs
22. #8 - Kyle Busch
23. #6 - Brad Keselowski
24. #4 - Noah Gragson
25. #48 - Alex Bowman
26. #99 - Daniel Suarez
27. #77 - Carson Hocevar
28. #71 - Michael McDowell
29. #41 - Cole Custer
30. #34 - Todd Gilliland
31. #7 - Justin Haley
32. #60 - Ryan Preece
33. #35 - Riley Herbst (R)
34. #47 - Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
35. #10 - Ty Dillon
36. #51 - Cody Ware

Storyline to watch

The introduction of two new tire combinations during the first round of the NASCAR playoffs adds a twist. Next week’s Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway will feature a new, softer right-side tire. Gateway will use the same tires that were tested at Iowa Speedway, introducing yet another challenge for playoff drivers. Notably, Kyle Larson was the only playoff driver in the June tire test, representing Chevrolet.

NASCAR news of the week

• A judge denied the request from 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports for a preliminary injunction in an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR regarding charters.
• NASCAR officials are contemplating adjustments to the Fastest Lap Award criteria for 2026.
• Haas Factory Team is switching from Ford to Chevrolet for the 2026 season.
• Austin Cindric will race for Tickford Racing in the V8 Supercars Adelaide Grand Final.
• Phil Barkdoll, a long-time independent NASCAR driver, passed away at age 87.

“We are saddened to learn of the passing of longtime NASCAR competitor Phil Barkdoll,” read a NASCAR statement. “Phil was a familiar face at Daytona and Talladega, known for his independent spirit and love of racing. He brought passion and determination to the sport and will be remembered fondly by the NASCAR community. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”

Pick to Win

Ryan Blaney (+500): This weekend presents a prime chance for Team Penske to assert their dominance in the playoffs. Penske cars have won two out of the three Cup races at Gateway, and with Blaney entering the playoffs strong after winning at Daytona, a win here would be crucial for the team’s pursuit of consecutive Cup titles.