Denny Hamlin makes massive mistake, spins to end Stage 1 of South Point 400

Denny Hamlin was in prime position to finish fourth in Stage 1 of Sunday's South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and earn crucial stage points. 

Kyle Larson, who led Hamlin by 26 points in the NASCAR Cup Series standings going into Sunday's race, had a long pit stop halfway through the stage and was mired in the back of the field, offering Hamlin an opportunity to take back and slightly expand his points lead early in the race. 

Denny Hamlin makes big mistake during Stage 1 of South Point 400

However, a massive mistake from Hamlin on Lap 88 could end up being one of the biggest moments of the 2026 season. Hamlin's No. 11 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota drifted up the racetrack in turns 3 and 4 before it finally snapped and spun. 

Hamlin kept his car off the wall and kept going, though NASCAR did not throw the caution, which resulted in Hamlin finishing the stage in 27th. Larson finished the stage in 23rd, with neither title contender receiving stage points.