The 2016 Xfinity Series champion from Monterrey, Mexico, is set to reach a milestone start in his sixth full-time season within NASCAR's three major division series.
The reigning three-time Daytona 500 champion was awarded the top starting spot for this weekend's Playoff event at the Charlotte Roval following last weekend's victory at Talladega.
Denny Hamlin won at Talladega in a wild finish, the result not determined until the third overtime. Hamlin officially qualified for the next round of the playoffs.
A pair of youngsters rallied from an early multi-car wreck and their share of on-track challenges to post top-15 results at Talladega and keep their championship hopes alive.
The three-time Daytona 500 champion prevailed in a wild, controversial finish to win at Talladega and race his way into the Round of 8 in the 2020 Cup Playoffs.
Anything is possible at the unpredictable 2.66-mile track as drivers compete for a chance to win it all at the championship finale in November at Phoenix Raceway.
