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Only three races are left in the NASCAR Cup Series regular season for the drivers to clinch their spot in the 2021 playoffs. After Watkins Glen last weekend, 11 drivers have clinched their spot in the postseason, leaving five spots still mathematically eligible.
Already Clinched
The following 11 drivers have clinched a spot in the 16-driver postseason field: Kyle Larson, William Byron, Kyle Busch, Joey Logano, Chase Elliott, Martin Truex Jr., Ryan Blaney, Brad Keselowski, Alex Bowman, Kurt Busch and Christopher Bell.
Can Clinch Via Points
If there is a repeat winner or a win by a driver who cannot advance to the playoffs, the following drivers could clinch by being 111 points above the second winless driver in the standings:
Denny Hamlin: Would clinch regardless of finish.
Can Clinch Via Previous Wins
The following drivers could clinch on previous wins with a win by a previous winner or a win by Denny Hamlin:
Michael McDowell and Aric Almirola: Would clinch regardless of finish.
The following drivers could clinch on previous wins with a win by a new winner:
Michael McDowell: Could only clinch with help.
Aric Almirola: Could only clinch if the new winner is Corey Lajoie or another driver even lower in the standings.
Can Clinch Via Win
The following drivers would clinch on their win alone this weekend:
Denny Hamlin, Kevin Harvick, Tyler Reddick, Austin Dillon, Michael McDowell, Aric Almirola.
The following drivers could clinch with a win:
Chris Buescher: Could only clinch with help.
Matt DiBenedetto: Could only clinch with help.
Ross Chastain: Could only clinch with help.