The 2023 NASCAR Cup Series comes to an end on Sunday with the grand finale at the Phoenix Raceway. While the Championship 4 drivers look to battle it out in the most competitive fashion, it’s the last race for the fans to bet on. However, the scenarios at hand indicate that one needs to be very cautious and clinical in doing so. Former Hendrick Motorsports crew chief and NBC analyst Steve Letarte explains why.

While the likes of Kyle Larson and Christopher Bell have prior Championship 4 experience, it is entirely a fresh experience for Ryan Blaney and William Byron. However, there’s a particular scenario Letarte cautions to be wary of.

Former Hendrick Motorsports Steve Letarte points out the possibility of a unique scenario at Phoenix Raceway

It is certainly amazing to see how young drivers have asserted their mark in the NASCAR Cup Series. With some fine performances in the playoffs, the Championship 4 drivers this time have an average age of just under 29 years old. For the second consecutive year, the average age has been under 30.

Both Ryan Blaney and William Byron will be making their way to the final for the first time in their career. While it is exciting to see, it certainly adds a lot of unpredictability to the race. What’s more amazing is that three of the final four drivers registered a victory in the round of 8.

Without a doubt, there’s no shortage of momentum on Sunday. However, things could turn out to be a little tricky than expected, especially on the betting front. Former Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Steve Letarte has been providing some great analysis prior to every race through his participation in the Dirty Mo Dough podcast.

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In the latest episode, he explained how double-thinking before betting at Phoenix is advisable. Letarte said, “Who do you bet? Larson at +180 to win the race, Blaney at +300, Byron at +380, and Bell at +500 to win the race. If you don’t take one of those four, then just don’t take anyone. And that’s okay.

“I know it’s crazy and it’s okay if you say that there are no odds in the Championship 4, then I’m not going to bet a winner. Well then let me tell you, don’t bet a winner, don’t throw any money anywhere else.” What Letarte is trying to hint at here is a special scenario.

In the event that a non-playoff driver wins at Phoenix, the Championship 4 driver with the best finish wins the title. In the nine years of the current format, one of the final four drivers has always ended up victorious. While it has not happened before, Letarte warns the fans to be cautious considering this specific scenario. On that note, let’s take a look at which drivers could stand a good chance to win the race.

Hendrick Motorsports will have reasons to worry going into the NASCAR Cup Series final at Phoenix Raceway

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It all comes down to the final race at Phoenix Raceway. While Hendrick Motorsports has both Kyle Larson and William Byron competing, they will not be motivated by their track record in Arizona. Both of them have won just once each in over 10 races.

What’s more concerning for them is Ford’s performance on the track. With nine wins Kevin Harvick has the best record at Phoenix among the active drivers. While a win could be the perfect farewell, he could also play a key role in helping fellow Ford driver Ryan Blaney.

To add, Joey Logano too has been impressive on the track with three wins to his name. All in all, Blaney would have some reliable figures supporting him on the track. As far as Christopher Bell is concerned, he is yet to win in Phoenix. However, given this is his second consecutive final appearance, he is expected to be better than he did last time around.

While statistics hardly matter in an intense finale like this, prior experience at the track always comes in handy. Who do you think would triumph on Sunday? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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