Shriners Children’s 500 at Phoenix Raceway: What to Expect

The NASCAR Cup Series heads to Phoenix Raceway this weekend for the Shriners Children’s 500, marking the first short-track-style race of the season. While Phoenix isn’t a traditional short track, its 1-mile layout, low banking, and unique frontstretch make it one of the more strategic tracks on the schedule. This distinctiveness has earned Phoenix the role of hosting the championship race since 2020.

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Key Drivers to Watch

Several drivers have consistently performed well at Phoenix, but Christopher Bell stands out as the biggest threat this weekend. Bell has won the last two NASCAR Cup Series races, putting him on the verge of a rare trifecta. The last driver to achieve this feat was Kyle Larson in 2021. Bell’s strong performances at Phoenix in recent years, combined with his historic start to the season, make him a significant contender on Sunday.

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William Byron has also been competitive at Phoenix. While he hasn’t secured a win at the track, he’s proven to be a formidable challenger and will be looking to halt Bell’s momentum.

Tyler Reddick and Kyle Busch have both shown promising speed this season and have had past success at Phoenix, though neither has secured a victory yet. This weekend could provide an opportunity for either to break through and claim their first win of the year, ending a streak of bad luck for both.

Looking into the Weekend

Officiating could play a major role this weekend at Phoenix, particularly given the lack of track limits. The 2025 NASCAR season has seen some questionable officiating decisions so far, from ending races under caution to missing calls when needed. At Circuit of the Americas (COTA) last weekend, track cutting occurred without penalties, except for Austin Cindric’s fine for right-hooking Ty Dillon. Normally, that move would warrant at least a one-race suspension, but NASCAR’s inconsistency has left many frustrated.

As Phoenix is a track with tight turns and high stakes, officials will be under pressure to ensure fair calls. These decisions could impact the race, especially if similar inconsistencies occur.

Where to watch

The race will air this Sunday on FS1 at 3:30 p.m. ET, featuring commentary from Kevin Harvick, who boasts nine wins at Phoenix Raceway—the most by any driver at the track. Harvick's extensive experience and success at Phoenix make him a valuable addition to the broadcast. His insights will provide depth to the commentary and give fans a closer look at the strategic elements of the race. Harvick’s engaging personality will enhance the viewing experience, offering a unique perspective on the action. You can also find coverage on MRN Radio and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

What We’ve Learned So Far

As we enter the fourth race of the season, a clearer picture is emerging of which teams are finding their rhythm and which still have work to do. For those who have struggled in the initial races, Phoenix offers a prime opportunity to turn things around. With its unique layout and strategic demands, this weekend’s race could be pivotal for drivers looking to gain momentum heading into the rest of the season.

Fans can anticipate a race rich in action, strategic maneuvers, and potential surprises as the Cup Series competes in the desert.