Writer : Melissa Ramus
Photographer: Rashad Griffin Sr.
FONTANA, Calif. — Kyle Larson returned to victory lane at Auto Club Speedway on February 27, 2022, surviving a chaotic and caution-filled NASCAR Cup Series race to win the Wise Power 400. Driving the No. 5 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports, Larson claimed his first victory of the 2022 season and the 17th NASCAR Cup Series win of his career.
The race marked NASCAR’s return to Auto Club Speedway after a two-year absence and delivered plenty of action from the drop of the green flag. The 400-mile event featured multiple lead changes, 12 caution periods, and dramatic late-race restarts that kept fans on the edge of their seats. first career Cup Series victory. completely changed the complexion of the race. to his car before the race. Despite the setback, the defending NASCAR Cup Series champion steadily moved forward and positioned himself among the contenders when it mattered most. the field as cautions continued to slow the action. finish.
A late caution set up one final restart and a dash to the finish. Larson executed a nearly flawless restart and managed to hold off Dillon’s challenge over the closing laps. After 200 laps around the 2-mile Fontana oval, Larson crossed the finish line just 0.195 seconds ahead of Dillon to secure the victory. Erik Jones finished third, followed by Daniel Suarez and Joey Logano in the top five.
For Larson, the win carried extra significance. A California native from Elk Grove, he was able to celebrate in front of family, friends, and hometown fans. It was also his second career victory at Auto Club Speedway, adding another memorable chapter to his success in his home state.
The 2022 Wise Power 400 will be remembered as one of the most exciting races of the season. It showcased the unpredictability of NASCAR, where dominance does not always guarantee victory and perseverance can be rewarded. Larson may not have had the fastest car on the track, but by staying patient, avoiding trouble, and capitalizing on opportunities, he once again proved why he was the reigning Cup Series champion.
As the checkered flag waved over Auto Club Speedway, Larson added another trophy to his collection and gave Southern California fans a thrilling race they would not soon forget.
