In a race weekend filled with anticipation and controversy, Denny Hamlin emerged as the pole-sitter for Sunday's FireKeepers Casino 400 NASCAR Cup Series event at Michigan International Speedway. The qualifying session was canceled due to unforeseen circumstances, resulting in the field being set via the metric. Hamlin's top spot on the starting grid sets the stage for an exciting battle on the 2.0-mile oval track.

Joining Hamlin in the spotlight this weekend are Austin Dillon and Joey Logano. Dillon, fresh off a win at Richmond, voiced his team's belief that they deserve a spot in the playoffs. However, their automatic playoff berth was stripped away by NASCAR following a penalty resulting from Dillon's last-lap wreck involving Hamlin and Logano. Richard Childress Racing (RCR) has filed an appeal, and the hearing is scheduled for next week.

Michigan International Speedway promises a different challenge for the drivers compared to the previous race at Richmond. With top speeds reaching the mid-190s MPH, the track demands power and precision. While Hamlin is expected to be a major factor in the race, recent history indicates that Ford has been the dominant manufacturer at MIS.

The full starting lineup for Sunday's FireKeepers Casino 400 has been confirmed, with Hamlin leading the pack in the No. 11 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota. Tyler Reddick of 23XI Racing Toyota and Christopher Bell of Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota will start in the second and third positions, respectively. Other notable contenders include Kyle Larson of Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet, Bubba Wallace of 23XI Racing Toyota, and Chase Elliott of Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet.

The FireKeepers Casino 400 will be nationally broadcasted on the USA Network. Fans can also choose to stream the race via the NBC Sports app or FUBO, which offers a free trial for potential subscribers.

The race at Michigan International Speedway is set to be a thrilling battle for the drivers as they navigate 200 laps, covering a total distance of 400 miles. The race will be divided into three stages: 45 laps, 75 laps, and 80 laps.

As the drivers gear up for the FireKeepers Casino 400, all eyes are on Denny Hamlin as he aims to convert his pole position into victory. However, with fierce competition from top contenders like Tyler Reddick, Christopher Bell, and Kyle Larson, the race is sure to be a nail-biting and unpredictable affair. NASCAR fans can look forward to an action-packed day of racing at Michigan International Speedway.