The early Top 10 MPD list reads like a cross-section of NASCAR’s fan favorites and personalities, not strictly the winningest drivers, but those whose personas and races resonate. As of Oct. 15, 2025, NASCAR released the early Top 10 vote-getters in the Cup Series, in no particular order: Christopher Bell, Shane van Gisbergen, Chase Elliott, Ryan Blaney, Kyle Busch, Kyle Larson, Ross Chastain, William Byron, Joey Logano, and Denny Hamlin.

What stands out immediately is how this mix balances established legends with newer or cross-series favorites, signaling that fans are casting a wide net beyond just race winners. Take Shane van Gisbergen, for instance.

His inclusion suggests that the outsider-turned-NASCAR-star narrative is striking chords with fans. SVG’s aggressive yet clean style, plus his success in the sport’s increasing road course emphasis, gives him fresh appeal.

Meanwhile, Christopher Bell joins the list as someone already with serious Cup credibility; his aggressive driving and high-profile performances in big races often draw strong reactions from fans, which tends to fuel voting interest.

Then there are the stalwarts. Chase Elliott continues to feature as a fixture even early in voting. His long run of Most Popular Driver awards, seven straight through 2024, shows how entrenched his fan base is. Kyle Busch, despite polarizing reactions in the media, still commands a loyal following built from years of consistent competitiveness and signature moments.

But the real jaw-dropper hit when Denny Hamlin, the JGR powerhouse, came head-to-head with Chase Elliott in the initial Round 1 tallies, flipping the script on the seven-time champ’s iron grip.

Names like Larson, Blaney, Byron, Logano, and Chastain round out the list in a way that underscores how performance, media presence, and personality all factor into early popularity dynamics. Kyle Larson’s resurgence and solid on-track results keep him in the conversation.

Ryan Blaney’s relatability and frequent fan interactions boost his profile. Byron carries a youthful appeal. Logano’s consistency and veteran status lend him enduring respect. Chastain’s flair and willingness to make bold moves make him a compelling pick.

What’s crucial to remember is that these early Top 10 names are not final verdicts on who will win. The voting remains open through Nov. 3, and fans can vote multiple times per day, but not more than five. These early standings are better viewed as mood gauges, revealing who’s fired up their base first, or whose narratives are trending in fan forums and social media.

Whether this slate holds or shakes up over the remaining weeks depends on how actively these drivers and their fan bases campaign, how their season finishes, and which storylines catch fire. Reddit threads exploded with raw takes, blending disbelief, legacy debates, and cheers for the upset.

Reddit rips into Hamlin’s early lead

Reddit’s NASCAR hive buzzed wildly over Hamlin’s surprise entry, fans reeling from the shock of a JGR star topping Elliott so soon. One post captured the vet resurgence sting: “I can’t believe after all these years we’re seeing Denny and KB make this list, but Brad still hasn’t cracked it.”

Hamlin and Busch clawing back into the early fray feels like ghosts of glory lanes rising, their deep-rooted crews rallying hard. But Keselowski stuck outside? That cuts deep for backers who see his track talk and team grit overlooked, a classic case of liked but not loved in the vote grind.

The throne talk dominated: “Would Elliott finally be dethroned from MPD this year?” Chase’s seven-year reign towers massive, but Hamlin’s rise cracks the armor, hinting the Elliott era might wobble at last. For decades, the award stuck to Elliotts or Dale Jr., breeding wonder if dominance fades when challengers like Denny ignite their spark.

Legacy whispers fueled fire: “How is Elliott always either the most popular driver or in the running. Is it the last name, like it was for Jr?” Bill’s 16 crowns cast a long shadow, priming Chase with instant pull and loyalty.

Yet it’s his fan hangs, media nods, and squeaky-clean vibe that seal it, though skeptics call it coasting on inertia over fresh fire. That push-pull flares bright when risers like Hamlin give a tough fight.

Briscoe’s ballot bait got laughs: “I guess Briscoe’s plan of having a 9 in his number and Chase as a first name didn’t work. Next year.” The sly nod to snagging stray clicks via name games drew smirks, but Elliott’s fortress held, turning the ploy into playful shade. Briscoe’s “Really thought it was my year” mixes ribbing with real itch, proof polls play tricks, but don’t topple titans easily.

Bell’s slot stunned outright: “CBell making this list is absolutely shocking.” His bold charges and spotlight steals carve cred, but popping early among icons? That’s the jolt signaling he’s bridging gaps, pulling edge fans who dig disruption over dynasty.

SVG stole the pure-heart vote: “It actually should be SVG. He just always seems like he’s genuinely just having fun. He took to the ‘hard but clean’ racing perfectly.” The man’s battle joy and wreck-free wheel work scream real deal, soaking up NASCAR’s bite while grinning through.

Fans push his fresh flair deserves the crown, arguing fun trumps fame, even if his newbie wave lags the old guard’s tide. Hamlin’s shock rise stirs the pot, but these takes scream the race to Nov. 3 stays wide open.