Ross Chastain makes history by winning Coca-Cola 600 from last position

On May 25, 2025, Ross Chastain achieved a remarkable victory at the Coca-Cola 600, held at Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina. Starting from the back of the field in 40th place, Chastain managed to pass prominent driver William Byron with just six laps remaining in the race. Despite Byron leading a significant portion of the event, including winning all three stages and leading 283 laps, he could not hold off Chastain’s late charge. This victory not only marked Chastain's first win of the NASCAR Cup Series season but also made him the first driver in history to win the Coca-Cola 600 after starting at the back. The race began with Byron showcasing strong performance, leading the majority and even completing a unique feat by sweeping the first three stages of the longest race in NASCAR history. However, during the final laps, Denny Hamlin, another notable contender, had to pit due to fuel issues, eliminating him from contention and allowing Chastain to capitalize on the opportunity. Chastain, who was driving a backup car after a practice crash caused by a tire failure, only managed to lead a total of eight laps throughout the race, yet they were the most critical laps. Chastain’s win is seen as a significant boost for Trackhouse Racing, reaffirming the resilience and capability of his team to recover from setbacks. His crew worked tirelessly through the night to prepare the backup car after the initial wreck, with many team members staying until the early hours to ensure he had a competitive vehicle for the race. Chastain celebrated the victory in his signature style by smashing a watermelon on the track, a nod to his family's legacy as watermelon farmers and a tradition that began following his first NASCAR win. Byron, on the other hand, faced disappointment, having consistently placed in the top positions in previous Coca-Cola 600 races without securing a victory, and he had recently signed a new contract with Hendrick Motorsports, adding to expectations for his performance. This win for Chastain not only represents a personal achievement but also highlights the unpredictable and thrilling nature of NASCAR racing. The Coca-Cola 600 is known not only for its length but for the thrilling competition it fosters among drivers. Chastain's victory encapsulated this unpredictability, as he transformed what could have been a disappointing day into a historic moment, showcasing the determination and fight that defines NASCAR racers, regardless of their starting position.